Episode 86.  This week, we take on a listener request and roll out the barrel - the sake barrel that is.  Taru sake is a unique style of sake that is aged in "sugi" or Japanese cedar.  This barrel aging allows the sake to take on a warm, woody and soothing aroma and flavor. At the first sip it is unmistakeable, but also mysterious. Once upon a time in Japan, all sake was Taru, as this wood was the principal material used to construct wooden brewing tanks and shipping barrels. With the advent of stainless steel tanks and glass bottles for shipping in the 20th century, Taru sake has evolved into more of a niche style. For fans of Taru, the finest cedar is recognized as coming from the Yoshino forest in Nara.  So let's listen in as we explore the barrel-aged beauty of taru sake.

Support the show