In this podcast, the hosts explore the concept of terroir in sake production, discussing its historical roots and modern controversy. They examine how climate and soil quality influence sake brewing, and delve into the challenges of defining terroir in different regions like Hagi. The discussion highlights the complexities of identifying terroir factors in rice cultivation and brewing, emphasizing the unique characteristics they impart to sake.
Historical sake brewing lacked terroir recognition, now its influence on sake composition is debated.
Defining sake terroir faces challenges due to complex brewing process and varied climates impact.
Deep dives
The Controversy around Sake Terwa
Sake's evolution over centuries has not historically included the recognition of terwa. The concept, gaining traction in the 21st century, focuses on the influence of terwa on the final sake's composition. Critics question why terwa wasn't identified earlier by Japanese sake makers, raising doubts about its true existence.
Challenges Defining Terwa for Sake
Defining terwa for sake remains elusive due to diverse interpretations. While wine terwa emphasizes factors like climate and soil, applying this directly to sake production presents challenges. Sake's complex brewing process involving rice, koji, and yeast, coupled with Japan's varied climates, raises questions on terwa's impact.
Impact of Climate on Sake Production
The discussion on climate's role in sake brewing reveals nuanced differences across regions, yet contemporary brewing techniques with temperature control diminish direct climate influence. Historical practices adapting to seasonal variations show human intervention's dominance in shaping sake's profiles.
Soil, Terrain, and Sake Diversity
Examining soil's influence on sake, research indicates limited acidity contributions compared to yeast and rice. Terrain's impact on rice cultivation introduces complexities in defining terwa for sake. Challenges in linking specific regions' terwa to sake's diverse flavors and characteristics emerge amidst Japan's diverse landscapes.
In a departure from the typical fact-based fare, this time Andy and Jim trawl the murky depths of terroir. What is it, really? No, really? And, is it really going to “save sake?” Predictably, we don’t think so… This time, recording ran pretty long so we're splitting this into our first ever two-parter.
Tune in next month for the exciting conclusion--and our recommendations!
Our theme music is from Lotus Lane by The Loyalist - Preconceived Notions