The Best Sake for Beginners: Where to Start

Walking into the world of premium sake for the first time can feel a little daunting. There are unfamiliar terms, Japanese characters on the labels, and a whole spectrum of styles to navigate. But here's the good news: getting started is easy, and the journey is delicious.

This guide cuts through the noise and tells you exactly where to begin.

Start With Something Approachable: Junmai Ginjo

If you're new to sake, Junmai Ginjo is your best entry point. It sits in the sweet spot between everyday sake and ultra-premium Daiginjo — fruity, aromatic, and easy to enjoy without any prior sake knowledge.

Our recommendation: Laugh with SAKE Junmai Ginjo Iyo Shizukuhime. It has a lovely fruity-floral nose, a smooth body, and a clean finish. Serve it chilled in a wine glass and pair it with grilled chicken, gyoza, or a simple sashimi platter.

Ready to Step Up? Try a Junmai Daiginjo

Once you've tried a Ginjo, the next step is a Junmai Daiginjo — the premium tier of sake, made with rice polished to at least 50%. These sakes are more delicate, more complex, and more refined.

A great starting point: Laugh with SAKE Junmai Daiginjo 40. It's beautifully balanced — fruity and elegant without being intimidating. Enjoy it chilled alongside sushi or steamed fish.

When you're ready to experience the pinnacle, try the Laugh with SAKE Junmai Daiginjo 35 Zuiun — polished to just 35%, it's one of the most refined sakes you'll ever taste.

Want Something Dry and Food-Friendly? Go for Tanrei

If you prefer dry, crisp drinks (think dry white wine or gin), you'll love Laugh with SAKE DRY Tanrei Akahyotan. It's clean, refreshing, and incredibly versatile with food — especially bold Singaporean dishes like chilli crab and black pepper crab.

Curious About Something Different? Try Nigori

If you want to try something truly unique, Laugh with SAKE Namachozoshu Nigori Sake is a great adventure. It's unfiltered — cloudy, creamy, and slightly sweet. Shake gently before pouring and serve well-chilled. It pairs wonderfully with spicy food and tropical desserts.

Not Sure About Sake Yet? Start With a Liqueur

If you're completely new to Japanese drinks, our citrus liqueurs are a gentle, delicious introduction. The Yuzu Liqueur Kuramoto no Yuzu is bright and citrusy — serve it over ice or mix it into a simple spritz. It's a crowd-pleaser that requires zero sake knowledge to enjoy.

Beginner's Tasting Tips

  • Always serve premium sake chilled — 8 to 12°C is ideal
  • Use a wine glass to appreciate the aromas
  • Sip slowly and let the flavour develop on your palate
  • Pair with food — sake almost always tastes better alongside a meal
  • Don't overthink it — if you enjoy it, it's the right sake for you

Ready to Begin?

Browse the full Premium Pour range and pick your starting point. We deliver across Singapore — your sake journey starts here.

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