Last week we discussed Kyokai yeast #14. This week we will switch from the specific to the general. Noteworthy sake is the result of a number of factors coalescing at the right time and in the right way. The strain and quality of the rice used, the all-important water, that UNESCO-recognized koji mold, and the knowledge and skill of the toji (brewmaster) are all at play here. But the yeast, be it commercial or ambient, is the éminence grise (gray eminence), the power behind the throne, the man behind the curtain, or more specific to the case at hand, that which makes alcoholic beverages alcoholic.
British poet Christina Rossetti (1830-1894) wrote a poem that is widely considered to be children’s literature. That “Who Has Seen the Wind?” is appropriate for the nursery, there can be no doubt. But there is more to her short poem. See if you agree. Here is stanza two.
Who has seen the wind?
Neither you nor I:
But when the trees bow down their heads,
The wind is passing by.
Substitute any shadowy figure or organization for “wind,” and you will understand what we mean.
In keeping with this week’s theme, we will include our own contribution to English poesy below. We tip our hats to Ms. Rossetti, of course.
Who Has Seen the Yeasts?
Who has seen the yeasts?
Neither you nor I,
But when those guys begin to sup,
The alcohol is nigh.
William F. O’Connor
September 2024
Drinking Japan 