Dec. 15 - American Embassy staff enjoy the wonderful opportunities to learn about Japan's unique history and culture during their stays in Japan. On a recent Friday evening, I hosted 40 American Embassy staff at my home for a lesson on Japan's sake culture.

Several representatives of a Japanese sake company explained the history of sake, brewing techniques, and how to enjoy drinking Japanese sake. They explained that sake has the greatest range of ideal drinking temperatures of any alcoholic beverage - it can be drunk warm, at room temperature and cold. They also explained that sweetness and umami are the most basic elements that make up its taste. They said that in contrast to wine or distilled alcoholic beverages like whiskey, most sake is best consumed within six to 12 months of production. when it reaches its peak quality.

I have always found that Japanese people are very kind and generous in explaining Japanese culture to foreigners. That evening was no exception, and the American Embassy staff much appreciated the chance to learn about Japan's long tradition of sake brewing and how to enjoy sake with Japanese food. Of course, that evening we also enjoyed tasting sake from different sake-producing regions in Japan such as Niigata, Akita, and Kochi. Each had its own unique flavor, and we had to drink several glasses to decide which variety we liked best!

Until next time,

Jim