🍶Refresh Your Summer with Japan’s Seasonal “Natsu-zake”🌿
As the heat of summer sets in, there’s nothing better than a chilled glass of “natsu-zake” — summer sake specially brewed to bring a sense of coolness and refreshment.
This blog introduces carefully selected, limited-edition summer sake perfect for the season. Light, fruity, and easy to drink — these are the bottles you’ll want in your fridge right now.
☀️What is “Natsu-zake”?
“Natsu-zake” refers to sake made specifically for summer enjoyment. Brewers craft these seasonal varieties to be light and refreshing — ideal for warm weather.
Typical features of summer sake:
-
Lower alcohol content for a smooth, easy drink
-
Refreshing, fruity aromas
-
Crisp and clean finish
-
Best enjoyed chilled
Whether pairing with summer meals or sipping on a breezy evening, “natsu-zake” is summer in a glass.
🍏Recommended Summer Sake
🍶Matsumidori Junmai Daiginjo “Natsujundai” (Kanagawa - Nakazawa Brewery)
This summer-exclusive Junmai Daiginjo features a gentle, easy-drinking style with just 14% alcohol.
Aromatic notes of green apple and pear create a fruity, elegant nose, balanced beautifully by sweetness and acidity.
👉 Light and crisp, it’s the perfect match for salads, cold dishes, or simply unwinding on a hot day.
🍶Michisakari Junmai Daiginjo “Kaoru Suzumisake” (Gifu - Mikadomori)
For dry sake lovers, this summer limited release is a must.
Fragrant with hints of melon and green apple, it opens with a refreshing, light mouthfeel and ends with a sharp, clean acidity.
👉 Elegant and dry with a sense of clarity — perfect for chilled summer sipping.
🍶Urakasumi Junmai “Natsuzake” (Miyagi - Saura Brewery)
From the renowned Urakasumi brand comes this fresh, seasonal Junmai.
Crisp and smooth on the palate with a subtle umami flavor from the rice.
Its fresh acidity and light body shine when chilled, making it an ideal food-friendly summer sake with a transparent, refreshing character.
👉 This is a summer sake that you'll want to keep in your refrigerator for your daily evening drinks or to accompany cold dishes.
🌊Cool Down with Japanese Summer Sake
A glass of chilled sake can transform even the hottest day into a moment of comfort and joy.
Seasonal sake like “natsu-zake” offers a delicious way to experience Japan’s seasons.
Don’t miss out on these limited-edition bottles — available only during summer.
At Sake Kōjin, we’re excited to share our handpicked summer sake lineup with you. Let’s make this summer extra refreshing, one glass at a time.