As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that shaking sake before pouring is not recommended. Sake is a delicate and nuanced drink that requires gentle handling to preserve its flavors and aromas. While some settling may occur during storage, it is best to mix the sake by gently swirling the bottle or decanter, rather than vigorously shaking it.
Shaking sake vigorously can introduce excess oxygen into the liquid, which can potentially alter its taste and aroma. Sake is known for its subtle and complex flavors, and excessive agitation can disrupt the delicate balance that brewers work hard to achieve. It's like shaking a fine wine before pouring; it's simply not done.
When you gently swirl the sake, you help to distribute any settled particles or sediments more evenly throughout the liquid. This ensures a consistent taste and texture when poured. It also allows the sake to come into contact with the air, which can enhance its aromas.
Another reason not to shake sake is the potential for carbonation. Some types of sake, such as sparkling or carbonated varieties, may have a natural effervescence. Shaking these types of sake can cause excess fizziness and result in a less enjoyable drinking experience.
In my personal experience, I have seen the negative effects of shaking sake. Once, at a tasting event, a guest became overzealous and shook a bottle of premium sake before pouring. The resulting pour was overly foamy and lacked the delicate flavors the sake was known for. It was a disappointing sight to witness, and it reinforced the importance of handling sake with care.
To ensure the best experience when serving sake, it is recommended to gently swirl the bottle or decanter before pouring. This simple motion helps to mix the sake without introducing excess oxygen or disturbing its delicate qualities. Remember, sake is not like a cocktail that needs to be shaken vigorously; it is a refined and elegant beverage that deserves to be treated with respect.
Shaking sake before pouring is not advisable. Instead, opt for gently swirling the bottle or decanter to mix the sake and distribute any settled particles. By doing so, you can enjoy the full range of flavors and aromas that sake has to offer. Cheers!