Discovering Yamaguchi Sake

A Taster’s Guide to Breweries, Culture, and Terrain

by Jim Rion

This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.

Buy on Amazon Buy on BN.com Buy on Bookshop.org

*This page contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you.

Pub Date Feb 21 2023 | Archive Date Apr 16 2023

Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles | Stone Bridge Press

Cooking, Food & Wine | Multicultural Interest | Nonfiction (Adult)

Talking about this book? Use #DiscoveringYamaguchiSake #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!

Description

This book is the first of its kind, a deep-dive into a single sake-producing region to highlight its delicious brews as well as the people, land, and culture behind them. Brewing in Yamaguchi — in southern Honshu, Japan — reflects the whole history of sake in Japan, from boom to bust to resurgence, and many of its brands, including the fabled Dassai, are now at izakaya and fine restaurants around the world. Expert Jim Rion takes us on a tour of all 23 Yamaguchi breweries to introduce the character of each and its brewmasters’ best picks. Along the way he provides background on such topics as rice farmers, drinkware, brewing methods, and the controversy over sake “terroir” (does it exist?). An added bonus for travelers is a mini sightseeing guide to the region and its many delights. Illustrated with photographs and quick-reference sake labels.

A Note From the Publisher

With a foreword by writer and certified sake and wine specialist, Melinda Joe

Advance Praise

“Every prefecture in Japan has a story to its sake. History, climate, culture, and cuisine all play into these stories and inevitably lead us to a fuller appreciation of all things sake. While most books in English focus on grades and famous brands (of which Yamaguchi has its share), Jim’s is among the first to dive into the important concept of regionality. And it’s about time!”
—John Gaunter, author of Sake Confidential and world-renowned sake authority

“Jim Rion offers a deep and intimate look at Yamaguchi’s wonderful sake tradition. The result isn’t only an illuminating look at the people who make the drink, but also a fascinating examination on how the region and its culture influence it. Let's drink to that. Kanpai!”
—Brian Ashcraft, author of The Japanese Saké Bible and Japanese Whisky