Nigorizake

Nigorizake is a type of sake, a Japanese rice wine, characterized by its cloudy appearance. The cloudiness comes from the presence of rice solids, called *sake kasu*, that are not completely filtered out during the brewing process. This distinguishes it from clear sakes, known as *seishu*. Nigorizake is often described as having a richer, creamier texture and a more robust flavor profile.

The brewing process for nigorizake is similar to other sakes, involving the fermentation of rice, water, yeast, and *koji* (a mold that breaks down rice starches into sugars). However, the final filtration stage is intentionally less thorough, allowing some of the *sake kasu* to remain in the finished product. This unclarified nature contributes to its unique mouthfeel and taste.

Due to the residual rice solids, nigorizake typically has a higher alcohol content than many clear sakes. Its flavor can range from sweet and fruity to savory and nutty, depending on the specific ingredients and brewing techniques used. It is often recommended to gently shake the bottle before serving to redistribute the rice solids, ensuring a consistent flavor and texture in each pour. Nigorizake is best enjoyed chilled and can be a good accompaniment to a variety of foods.

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