Taruzake

Taruzake or taru sake is a Japanese sake variety that is stored and aged in cedar barrels. During this period, sake attains a subtle aroma and flavor of wood. This sake variety emerged from ancient times when sake was transported and stored in cedar (sugi) barrels before it was transferred into ceramic pots.

The length of time taruzake spends in a barrel can vary, and it is not officially prescribed. Yoshino—cedar from the forests of Nara prefecture—is considered to be the best cedar variety for the production of taruzake. This sake variety goes well with deep-fried food or grilled chicken, and it is recommended to serve it at room temperature or chilled.