Spring Sake for Cherry Blossom Season

Portraits by Karen Presecan Photography

The Annual Cherry Blossom Festival is almost here! Beginning mid-March, locals and tourists alike will find the District celebrating the beautiful sakura (cherry trees) that line the Potomac and bring new life to the capital region every year. 

The origin of these trees is very special. They were gifted by the City of Tokyo to the United States as a symbol of friendship in 1912, and since then, the ancient tradition of hanami (flower-viewing) has spread from Japan to the United States and throughout the world. 

Sakura are truly beautiful in every phase: as a bud signifying new life, in full blooms of rich pink, and as they fade, they serve as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life. Traditionally, hanami picnics give families and friends a chance to reflect and be inspired by the changing of the seasons.

Some favorite hanami snacks are rice balls, fresh fruit, and of course, sushi. We also love sipping on craft sake! Here are some of our favorite sake to try during cherry blossom season:

Dassai “45” Nigori - An excellent “cloudy” sake. Creamy with some light, fruity sweetness that finishes slightly dry. Perfect as a starter for a mini charcuterie board.

Real Magic Junmai by North American Sake Brewery - Yes, you read that right, American craft sake is real and we have one in Charlottesville, VA! This sake is clean and mellow, and absolutely delicious with fried chicken, spring rolls, even pizza.

Hakkaisan “AWA” Sparkling - This bubbly, elegant sake will change your life and you might never go back to regular Champagne again! Made using secondary in-bottle fermentation to produce the finest bubbles, this pairs perfectly with oysters, shrimp, and chocolate. 

Interested in a sake tasting? Emailkanpai@capitalsake.comand follow us on Instagram @capitalsake.