The Saketini: A Fusion of East and West in a Glass

The Saketini, a sophisticated and increasingly popular cocktail, offers a unique twist on the classic martini by incorporating the delicate flavors of sake. This elegant drink bridges the gap between traditional Western cocktails and the subtle nuances of Japanese rice wine, creating a refreshingly different experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or simply looking for something new to try, the Saketini provides a delightful journey for your palate.

What is a Saketini?

At its core, the Saketini is a variation of the classic martini, substituting sake for the traditional vermouth. This simple change results in a cocktail that retains the martini’s sophistication but with a smoother, more nuanced profile. Often made with either gin or vodka as the base spirit, the Saketini is incredibly versatile, lending itself to numerous variations and flavor combinations. The Saketini’s clear, clean taste makes it a perfect aperitif or a refined complement to a meal.

The Origins of the Saketini

The exact origins of the Saketini are somewhat hazy, with multiple stories and claims. One popular theory suggests that a chef named Matsuda-san first created the Saketini at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. Another theory points to the original Benihana restaurant in New York City, which opened in 1964. Regardless of its exact birthplace, the Saketini gained traction in the 1990s, becoming a staple in many bars and Japanese restaurants as the “martini” concept broadened to include a variety of spirit-based cocktails. While some cocktail purists may scoff, the Saketini has carved its own place in the world of mixed drinks, offering a fresh perspective on classic flavors.

Key Ingredients for a Perfect Saketini

Sake

The heart of the Saketini lies in the quality of the sake used. Junmai sake, known for its pure rice flavor, is often recommended for its smooth, slightly acidic, and rich profile. However, there are many different types of sake to experiment with:

• Junmai: These are versatile and flavorful, with a rich and savory character that complements both gin and vodka.
• Ginjo: These are more fruity and floral, providing a lighter, more aromatic Saketini.
• Honjozo: These offer a more robust, earthy flavor and crisp finish.
• Nigori: This unfiltered sake has a creamy texture and a slightly sweeter flavor, ideal for a variation like the Kyoto Lady.
• Nama Genshu: This unpasteurized and undiluted sake adds a unique, fresh flavor.

The best choice depends on the desired outcome and personal preference, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.

Base Spirit

The choice of base spirit—vodka or gin—also significantly impacts the Saketini’s final flavor.

• Vodka: Often the standard choice, vodka offers a clean, neutral base that allows the sake’s flavors to shine.
• Gin: Gin, especially Japanese gins like Suntory Roku or Nikka Coffey, add a layer of complexity with their botanical notes, creating a more aromatic and nuanced drink. London Dry gins also work well.
• Shochu: For a more authentic Japanese twist, rice shochu, which is essentially distilled sake, can be used, adding a soft, fruity, and floral profile.

Other additions

Other ingredients that can be used to enhance the Saketini:

• Vermouth: A small amount of dry vermouth can add depth and complexity, much like it does in a classic martini.
• Bitters: A dash of bitters, such as Fee Brothers Plum Bitters or other complimentary bitters, can add another layer of flavor and balance.
• Liqueurs: For sweeter variations, liqueurs like elderflower liqueur (St-Germain), cherry liqueur, or ginger liqueur can be included.
• Fruit Juices: Fresh citrus juices, like lemon, lime, or grapefruit, can add a refreshing twist to the classic saketini.

Classic Saketini Recipe

The most straightforward Saketini recipe is similar to a classic martini, using a 5:1 or 2:1 ratio of spirit to sake. Here’s a basic recipe to get started:

Ingredients:

• 2.5 ounces gin or vodka
• 0.5 ounce sake (Junmai recommended)
• Garnish: Cucumber slice, olive, or lemon twist

Instructions:

1. Chill a martini glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice.
2. In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour in the gin or vodka and sake.
3. Stir well for about 30 seconds to ensure the drink is cold and properly diluted.
4. Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a cucumber slice, olive, or lemon twist.

Saketini Variations to Explore

The Saketini’s versatility has given rise to numerous variations, each offering a unique flavor profile. Here are a few popular options:

Cucumber Saketini

This variation adds a refreshing twist with fresh cucumber.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cucumber vodka
• 1 ounce Junmai sake
• Garnish: Cucumber ribbon or slice

Instructions:

1. Combine the vodka and sake in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir well until chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon or slice.

Alternatively, you can muddle slices of cucumber before mixing for a more intense flavor.

Lychee Saketini

This sweeter option is perfect for those who enjoy fruity cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 ounces sake
• 0.5 ounce vodka
• 0.5 ounce St-Germain (elderflower liqueur)
• 3 lychees from a can with some of the original syrup
• Garnish: 1 lychee berry

Instructions:

1. Muddle the canned lychees in a shaker.
2. Add the sake, vodka, St-Germain, and ice.
3. Shake well until chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lychee berry.

Ginger Saketini

For a spicy and refreshing drink, try the Ginger Saketini.

Ingredients:

• Dry sake
• Gin
• Lime juice
• Ginger beer
• Cucumber slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine sake, gin, and lime juice in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled glass.
4. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a cucumber slice

The “Kyoto Lady” (Nigori Saketini)

This variation uses nigori sake for a creamy and slightly sweet flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 ounces Nigori sake
• 1 ounce London Dry Gin
• 0.5 ounce Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 0.5 ounce Simple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Shake the bottle of nigori sake before pouring.
2. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
3. Shake well until chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled glass.

Other Variations

There are many other ways to customize your Saketini:

• Pear Saketini: Use pear liqueur or muddled fresh pear for a sweet and fruity option.
• Plum Wine Martini: Combine sake with plum wine for a unique twist.
• Green Tea Saketini: Use green tea infused sake for an earthy, aromatic cocktail.

Choosing the Right Sake

Selecting the right sake is crucial for an exceptional Saketini. Consider these tips:

• Read labels carefully: Look for sake descriptions that match your preferred flavor profile (fruity, floral, rich, savory).
• Experiment with different types: Don’t be afraid to try various sake styles, like Junmai, Ginjo, and Honjozo, to discover your favorites.
• Consider the quality: Higher-quality sakes will generally provide a smoother and more nuanced flavor.
• Ask for recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask staff at liquor stores or Japanese restaurants for their sake suggestions.

The Art of Garnishing

Garnishes are important to complete the Saketini and add visual appeal:

• Cucumber Slice: A classic choice, adding a refreshing element.
• Cucumber Ribbon: A thin strip of cucumber creates an elegant look.
• Olive: A traditional martini garnish that works surprisingly well.
• Lemon Twist: Adds a citrus note that pairs nicely with many Saketini variations.
• Maraschino Cherry: A sweet and festive option.
• Lychee: For sweet, tropical variations.
• Candied Ginger: Adds a spicy element to the drink.

Final Thoughts

The Saketini is more than just a cocktail; it’s an exploration of flavors and cultures. Its versatility, coupled with the unique character of sake, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking something beyond the usual. By experimenting with different sakes, spirits, and garnishes, you can create your signature Saketini, a drink that truly reflects your taste and style. Whether you’re at a bar, restaurant, or mixing drinks at home, the Saketini offers a refined and enjoyable experience that is sure to impress.