Fukurotsuri (hanging-bag pressing)

Fukurotsuri is one of the traditional methods of joso (pressing, the stage at which sake is separated from the fermentation mash) in sake brewing. In this process, moromi (fermentation mash) is packed into special sake bags, and the bags are hung so that the clear sake drips out naturally and can be collected. Because fukurotsuri uses gravity to extract the sake without applying pressure, it yields sake with a very delicate flavor. Sake obtained this way is sometimes also called tobin-gakoi or shizuku-zake (drip sake). Fukurotsuri is especially valued in the production of high-quality sake, and the results are often exceptional bottles that reflect the skill and effort of the craftspeople.