January is traditionally the time of the year when many people make new year’s resolutions. How many stick to them, however, is another question. Always popular though, is cutting out or reducing alcohol intake, no doubt as a result of a little overindulgence at Christmas!
With this in mind, Japanese sake brand Sake ONO is reimagining what Dry January drinking can look like. But rather than entirely cutting alcohol out altogether, they have come up with a No & Low January with a flavour-led, lower-ABV approach to drinking, designed for those of you who want to drink better and not just less.
Particularly amongst the younger generations, drinking in moderation is increasingly becoming a year-round mindset rather than just a one-month January reset. What we are seeing these days is that people are prioritising balance, quality and intentional choices. They are leaning towards lighter serves and lower-ABV options that still give depth and enjoyment.
As a result, the shift is moving towards drinks that sit between wine and spirits, such as Sake, and Sake ONO’s Junmai Daiginjo is the perfect elegant expression that is crafted for conscious enjoyment.
You can already find it at some popular London restaurants such as Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay, the Four Seasons Hotel London and Dorian Restaurant where it is celebrated for its clean profile and versatility and can be enjoyed simply chilled or stirred into a polished, modern cocktail.
Sake ONO’s Junmai Daiginjo is crafted in Niigata, Japan and brewed using just four natural ingredients and carries a naturally balanced lower ABV. It is lighter than traditional spirits but is more structured than wine. It offers a smooth, refined finish that goes well with contemporary UK drinking habits. You can serve it chilled in a wine glass or use it as the foundation for a cocktail to deliver a little elegance without any heaviness.
Lana Buchanan, Chief Executive Officer of Sake ONO, commented:
“January is no longer about abstaining entirely. UK drinkers are increasingly looking for sophisticated, lower-alcohol options that support their lifestyle goals without sacrificing flavour or occasion. Sake ONO allows people to enjoy ritual, balance, and refinement – all while moderating their intake.”
So, if you fancy mixing your own Sake cocktail for an alternative Dry January, then how about Sake ONO’s signature serve – the ONO Martini – which has been designed with the modern palate in mind, offering a refined alternative to the classic martini.
To create it you will need 50ml Sake ONO, 10ml premium gin or vodka, 10ml premium dry vermouth and 2 dashes of orange bitters.
Then simply combine all the ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe and garnish with an olive and a lemon twist to give you a cocktail with just 15.5% ABV compared to roughly 30% ABV for a standard martini.
Sake ONO is available in 300ml and 750ml bottles through select boutique retailers, Selfridges and online at www.drinksone.com.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based travel and motoring journalist and editor, a former member of The British Guild of Travel Writers and professional photographer.
Photograph courtesy of Sake ONO
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