Beyond Rice: Exploring the World of Flavoured Sake with Île Four

We're thrilled to welcome Île Four flavoured sake to the range—bringing a fresh, modern approach to a long-standing Japanese tradition. While flavoured sake has existed for centuries, Île Four reimagines them for a Western audience with delicious and accessible flavour profiles. These vibrant, fruit-infused sakes stay true to their rich heritage while offering a versatile drinking experience, making them perfect for enjoying neat, over ice, or mixed into creative cocktails.

The Story of Île Four Sake

Île Four was founded by three sake enthusiasts who set out to make premium sake more accessible to European consumers. Frustrated by the high cost, limited availability, and complex labels that often made traditional sake feel intimidating, they created a brand that bridges the gap between Japanese craftsmanship and modern Western lifestyles. Named after Japan’s four main islands, Île Four offers handcrafted, high-quality sake that is easy to enjoy, whether sipped on its own, paired with food, or mixed into cocktails.

Flavoured Sake Explained

Sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine, is often associated with delicate, refined flavours, but flavoured sakes have long existed as a delicious alternative. By infusing sake with natural ingredients such as fruits, spices, and herbs, brewers have created a diverse range of flavours that offer a fresh perspective on this centuries-old drink. 

Flavoured sake offers a world of exciting possibilities, with a variety of natural infusions enhancing its depth and appeal. Popular flavour additions include:

• Citrus: Yuzu, lemon, and lime bring a bright, zesty freshness.
• Stone Fruits: Peach (momo), plum (ume), and apricot add sweet, juicy richness.
• Spices: Ginger, cinnamon, and pepper introduce warmth and complexity.
• Herbs: Mint, shiso, and other botanicals create crisp, aromatic profiles.

Each infusion adds a distinct character, making flavoured sake a versatile and refreshing option for both sipping and mixing. Brands like Île Four are redefining how flavoured sake is enjoyed by a Western audience; they bring a fresh, approachable twist to this traditional drink while showcasing its versatility.

Île Four’s flavoured sakes showcase the best of Japan’s orchards and gardens, combining premium sake craftsmanship with vibrant fruit infusions. Their Yuzu Sake highlights the bright, citrusy aroma of Japan’s beloved yuzu fruit, balancing its natural tang with a smooth sake base for a refreshing and versatile drink. The Momo Sake celebrates the delicate sweetness of Japanese peach, offering subtle floral notes that pair beautifully with fruit-based desserts. Meanwhile, their Ume Sake, made with Japanese ume plums, delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it an ideal choice served chilled or on the rocks. For those who enjoy bolder flavours, Île Four’s Ginger Sake packs a warming, spicy kick that pairs well with both cocktails and rich, savoury dishes.

Flavoured sake’s versatility makes it an exciting addition to any drinks collection. Best served chilled, it can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or mixed into creative cocktails. Its bright, natural flavours also make it a perfect pairing with food—yuzu sake complements seafood dishes, while plum and peach varieties enhance the sweetness of desserts. Whether you’re new to sake or looking to expand your palate, Île Four’s range of flavoured sakes offers a modern and accessible way to experience this traditional drink, bridging heritage with innovation in every sip.

Île Four Momo Sake

According to Japanese legend, the momo (Japanese peach) holds protective powers against evil—most famously in the tale of Momotarō, a boy sent from heaven in a peach who later frees an island from invading demons. While Île Four Momo may not ward off demons, its blend of aromatic Japanese peach and smooth premium sake delivers an irresistibly fruity and creamy flavour. For an extra touch of indulgence, try it with a splash of bubbly to create a refreshing Sake Bellini.

Île Four Yuzu Sake

Arguably one of the most extraordinary fruits on earth, yuzu has been cultivated in Japan for over a thousand years. This rare citrus is known for its intense, aromatic flavour, extracted through a meticulous and costly process from both its pulp and rind. Unlike lemons, yuzu offers a beautifully complex balance of sweet, bitter, salty, and sour notes—without the sharp acidity. When paired with premium sake, it transforms into a refreshingly vibrant aperitif. Enjoy it simply over ice as a ‘Yuzu Crush’ or add a splash of bubbly for an extra layer of effervescence.

Cocktail: Île Four Yuzu Mai Tai

Discover the mai Tai you always wanted - the Yuzu Espuma turns a regular Mai Tai into a citrusy celebration! This one requires making a Yuzu Espuma ahead of time, but it is well

worth the extra effort.

Ingredients:

• Île Four Yuzu Sake
• 30ml Dark Rum
• 30ml Light Rum
• 30ml Jamaican Rum
• 10ml Lemon Juice
• 15ml Dry Curaçao

YUZU Espuma (Enough For 10+ Serves)

• 300ml Île Four Yuzu Sake
• 200cl Almond Syrup
• 2-3 Eggs Whites

Method:

For Yuzu Espuma

1. First prepare espuma by adding all Espuma ingredients into a soda siphon.
2. Add the gas capsule to the siphon, shake and store in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours.

For Yuzu Mai Tai

1. Fill a tumbler with ice cubes.
2. Add all ingredients apart from the Espuma to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well.
3. Pour into the glass over the ice.
4. Top with the homemade Espuma.
5. Serve immediately.
   

Île Four Ume Sake

For centuries, the ume tree has symbolised the arrival of spring in China and Japan, blooming as early as late January. Much like the iconic sakura cherry blossoms, ume flowers are honoured with festivals and traditional ceremonies. While ume fruit is rarely eaten fresh, it is commonly enjoyed as a pickled delicacy over rice or infused with shochu to create a classic plum wine. Île Four’s take on this tradition blends premium sake with ume, balancing its natural acidity with the sake’s smooth sweetness. Simply pour over ice and enjoy.

Île Four Ginger Sake

Unleash the intense warmth of fresh ginger combined with the smooth elegance of premium sake. Île Four Ginger delivers a vibrant, invigorating kick that’s perfect for those who love bold flavours. Crafted with freshly grated ginger, this dynamic infusion awakens the senses, making it ideal for sipping over ice, mixing with tonic, or shaking into a zesty cocktail. Whether enjoyed as a shot or in the ultimate brunch Ginger Martini, Île Four Ginger is a versatile and unforgettable experience that packs a punch.

Cocktail: Ginger Martini with Île Four Ginger 

The ultimate brunch cocktail!

Ingredients:

• 40ml Île Four Ginger Sake
• 40ml Vodka
• A Squeeze of lemon juice
• Lemon twist for garnish

Method:

1. Chill a martini glass by filling with ice, or better have stored in the freezer in advance.
2. Add all ingredients apart from the lemon twist into the shaker with ice and shake well.
3. Remove ice from the Martini glass before straining the cocktail into it.
4. Garnish with a twist of lemon and serve.

Now’s the Time to Try Flavoured Sake

Flavoured sake offers a fresh and exciting twist on a centuries-old tradition, blending the craftsmanship of premium sake with the vibrant flavours of real fruit and spices. Whether you're a sake enthusiast or new to the category, these beautifully balanced drinks are perfect for sipping over ice, mixing into cocktails, or enjoying as a refreshing aperitif. With their smooth, natural sweetness and bright, aromatic profiles, flavoured sake provides a unique and versatile drinking experience that complements any occasion.

Elevate your drinks selection and discover the delicious world of flavoured sake.