Hiire: Traditional vs. Nanbu Bijin's Approach

Traditional Hiire

1. Temperature: Typically heated to 60-65°C (140-149°F).

2. Duration: Usually maintained for about 10-20 minutes.

3. Method: Often done in large batches.

4. Cooling: Gradual cooling is common.

5. Frequency: Generally performed once, sometimes twice.

Enhanced Translation: Nanbu Bijin's Innovative Sake Heating

Sake Heating: A Gentle Approach to Preserving Flavor

At Nanbu Bijin, we take great care in the sake heating process, particularly the initial heating phase known as "hon-hiire." Our approach, which utilizes a cutting-edge plate heater system, sets us apart from traditional methods.

Traditional Heating vs. Plate Heater Method

Traditional heating methods often involve immersing sake in hot water tanks, which can expose the sake to high temperatures for extended periods. This can lead to flavor degradation and a loss of freshness.

Nanbu Bijin's plate heater system offers a more precise and efficient method. This system uses a series of heated plates to rapidly heat and cool the sake, minimizing its exposure to high temperatures.

The Nanbu Bijin Approach

1. Rapid Heating: Sake is passed through a series of plates, where it is quickly heated to 60-65 degrees Celsius. This rapid heating process helps to preserve the sake's delicate flavors and aromas.

2. Immediate Cooling: The heated sake is then immediately cooled to 10 degrees Celsius using another series of plates. This rapid cooling prevents further oxidation and preserves the sake's freshness.

3. Temperature Control: The plate heater system allows for precise control of the heating and cooling temperatures, ensuring optimal results.

Benefits of the Plate Heater Method

• Preservation of Flavor: By minimizing the time the sake is exposed to high temperatures, the plate heater method helps to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the sake.

• Efficiency: The system is highly efficient, allowing for rapid heating and cooling without compromising the quality of the sake.

• Precision: The plate heater system allows for precise control of the heating and cooling temperatures, ensuring consistent results.

Additional Considerations

While the plate heater method offers significant advantages, it's important to note that it doesn't completely eliminate the risk of bacterial contamination. Therefore, the sake must still be stored at low temperatures to prevent spoilage.

Nanbu Bijin's Commitment to Quality

Nanbu Bijin's dedication to producing high-quality sake is evident in their innovative approach to heating. By carefully controlling the heating process and using advanced technology, they are able to create sake that is both delicious and safe to consume.