Utter magic is the only way to describe the enchanting new release from Nagahama-based Sato Sake Brewery. Just look for the vivid, indigo blue liquid going by the name Seilan. While the initial color might be hypnotizing enough, watch as it morphs its hue to a luscious purple upon the addition of an acidic ingredient like lemon juice.
What’s the secret ingredient?
The base of Seilan is Yamada Nishiki rice, polished to 60% to create a Ginjo sake (the highest grade). After this, things get funky, as it’s infused with neutral flavored butterfly pea flowers to create the blue hue. The plant, which formally goes by Clitoria ternatea, hails from to Southeast Asia and is often found in various types of cuisine and herbal tea for its blue colouring but neutral flavor.
More than just a sake
Sato Sake Brewery’s creation goes further than just the sake. It’s a visual art piece that allows spirit experts and amateurs to play around with taste and sight. Everyone loves a fun, interactive cocktail. Seilan lets simple chemistry become a magic trick.
Want to know more about Sake in general? See this beginner’s guide piece here.