A Saketini is one of those cocktails that feels both elegant and easygoing. It’s crisp, clean, and just the right amount of floral. With just two main ingredients—sake and vodka—it comes together in minutes but feels like a special occasion in a glass. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s become my go-to for dinner parties, especially when sushi or light bites are on the menu. Let me show you how to make it just right.
Saketini
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Chilled martini or coupe glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) sake (preferably chilled, good-quality Junmai or Ginjo)
– 1 oz (30 ml) vodka (unflavored or something clean-tasting)
– Ice cubes (enough to fill a mixing glass)
– Optional garnish: thin cucumber slice, pickled ginger, or a lemon twist
Equipment
– Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
– Bar spoon (or anything long enough to stir)
– Strainer
– Martini or coupe glass
Method
- Chill your glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prep the drink.
- Fill a mixing glass about halfway with ice. You want enough to chill the drink without watering it down too quickly.
- Pour in the sake and vodka. Stir gently for about 20–30 seconds until the drink is nice and cold.
- Discard the ice from your glass (if you used the ice water trick) and strain the cocktail into it.
- Garnish with a cucumber slice, a piece of pickled ginger, or a twist of lemon—whatever suits the mood.
Tips for the Best Saketini
- Use good-quality sake. You don’t need the most expensive bottle, but avoid the cooking variety. Junmai or Ginjo types offer a clean, balanced flavor.
- Chill everything. A Saketini should be served cold and crisp. Keep your sake and vodka in the fridge if possible.
- Don’t over-stir. You want it cold, not watered down. Stir just until the outside of the mixing glass feels chilled.
- Try different garnishes. A slice of cucumber keeps it light, but a shiso leaf or even a cherry blossom can bring a fun twist.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can batch this cocktail ahead of time for a party. Just mix the sake and vodka in a pitcher, cover, and keep it chilled in the fridge. Stir with ice right before serving to keep it fresh and cold.
Serving Suggestions
This drink pairs beautifully with light, savory bites. Here are a few of my favorite combos:
Sushi
From tuna rolls to salmon sashimi, the Saketini’s clean profile lets the fish shine.
Tempura
That crispy, airy batter? It’s a great contrast to the drink’s smoothness.
Charcuterie
A little unexpected, but it works. The saltiness of cured meats and cheeses plays nicely with the delicate sake notes.
Variations to Try
Sometimes you want to mix it up. Here are a few versions I’ve played with over the years:
Cucumber Saketini
– Add a few slices of cucumber and muddle gently in the mixing glass before adding the ice and alcohol.
– This one’s super refreshing—perfect for warm evenings.
Spicy Saketini
– Add a tiny piece of jalapeño or a small dab of wasabi to the shaker.
– Shake well for a hint of heat that sneaks up on you.
Lychee Saketini
– Use lychee-flavored sake or add a splash of lychee juice.
– Garnish with a lychee fruit for a lightly sweet, floral version.
Virgin Saketini (Non-Alcoholic)
– Use non-alcoholic sake (available at specialty stores) and add a splash of lemon or lime juice.
– Garnish with cucumber for a light and refreshing mocktail.
Common Questions
Can I skip the vodka?
Sure! You’ll get a gentler, sake-forward drink. It’s a nice option if you want something lower in alcohol.
What kind of sake should I use?
Look for Junmai or Ginjo sake. They’re smooth, balanced, and easy to find. Avoid anything labeled for cooking.
Is it better stirred or shaken?
Stirring keeps the drink crystal-clear and smooth. Shaking makes it colder and gives it a bit more texture. Try both and see what you like.
Can I use flavored vodka?
Yes! Try cucumber, citrus, or even ginger vodka for a fun twist.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely. Just keep it chilled and stir with ice right before serving. You can even pre-garnish the glasses to save time.
Final Thoughts
The Saketini is one of those drinks that sneaks up on you—in the best way. It’s simple, elegant, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re sipping it solo on a quiet night or shaking up a batch for friends, it’s a cocktail that always feels just right. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because this one never fails to impress—and it’s so easy to make. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own.
