Chirori (Tin or Copper Sake Warmer)

Heating sake brings out its aroma and enhances its natural sweetness, acidity, bitterness and umami notes. To make hot (or warm) sake, you can either heat an entire bottle in a water bath or pour the sake into a warming vessel called a chirori, then place that into hot water.

These slender pouring vessels are made of tin or copper, which conduct heat beautifully and won't react with the acid in the sake; they also have a narrow spout for easy pouring. Chirori made of tin are especially good at mellowing any sharp or harsh notes in sake, providing a smoother drinking experience.