Fukumika (aroma perceived in the mouth)

Fukumika (含み香) refers to the aroma that rises through the nose after sake has been taken into the mouth and swallowed. Because it can be perceived by sipping the sake, letting it spread slowly around the mouth, and sensing it again through the breath, it is a very important element of tasting. Fukumika helps in understanding the flavor of a sake more deeply, and it is also called kochuka (口中香), or in-mouth aroma. It is also related to the aftertaste, or aftersmell, meaning the aroma that lingers after drinking. This quality allows drinkers to enjoy the individual character and distinguishing features of various sakes.