Specific gravity

Specific gravity is an index of the density of a substance, and it is especially important for understanding the properties of liquids and solids. In sake, specific gravity is used to measure the components and alcohol content of the sake. Specifically, it is the value obtained by comparing the weight of sake at a given temperature with the weight of an equal volume of water, and a higher specific gravity indicates a greater content of sugar and alcohol. Measuring the specific gravity of sake makes it possible to follow the progress of fermentation and of the brewing process (shikomi, the stages of mash preparation), so it is a very important factor in sake making.