What's the difference between Junmai and Daiginjo?

Junmai refers to purity (rice, water, yeast and koji only), while Daiginjo refers to polish (rice milled to 50% or less). A Junmai Daiginjo is both — pure rice sake at the highest polishing grade, and generally the most refined style you can buy.

Should sake be served warm or chilled?

Both are correct — it depends on the style. Chill aromatic Ginjo and Daiginjo; warm fuller, earthier Junmai styles to around 40–45°C. Avoid overheating premium sake, as it burns off the delicate aromatics.

Most sake sits between 14% and 16% ABV — closer to wine than to spirits, despite its reputation.

How long does sake last after opening?

Keep it refrigerated and it will drink well for one to two weeks — longer than most table wine. Unopened bottles are best stored cool and dark and enjoyed young, ideally within a year of bottling.