Flight of sake from Ramen Bowls, 125 E. 10th St.

Sake, arguably Japan’s most well-known drink, holds a certain mystique here in the states. For starters, despite being commonly referred to as a “rice wine,” its brewing process more closely resembles beer, says Shantel Grace, co-owner of Ramen Bowls. For those looking to dip their toes into the waters of the centuries-old — and surprisingly diverse — potable, Grace recommends one of Ramen Bowls’ sake flights. Customers can design their own flight in a sampler tray of three or five different varieties or ask for the bartender’s choice.

We tried out one of the more premium flights, starting with Zipang, a chilled, lightly carbonated refreshment that tastes quite a bit like champagne. Next up was Gekkeikan Nigori, Grace’s personal favorite. The unfiltered sake has a thick, creamy color and texture, with a sort of sweet sourness that recalls buttermilk or plain yogurt. It’s an acquired taste that often takes people by surprise but ultimately wins them over, Grace says of the continual crowd-pleaser. Ramen Bowls also has a knack for infusions, experimenting with everything from fresh fruit to herbs to confetti donuts. One such product, an infusion of Gekkeikan with blackberries and cinnamon, is a spicy, autumnal sweet treat. Tozai Snow Maiden, another unfiltered sake, shares its creaminess with the Nigori, but has a drier taste. Last but not least is Rock Sake Cloud, a plum-flavored sake that tastes less like juice and more like a fruit liquor.

The hard stuff: Zipang, Gekkeikan Nigori, Haiku, Tozai Snow Maiden, Rock Sake Cloud

Where it’s served:Ramen Bowls, 125 E. 10th St.

What it costs: Three-sake flights start at $6, while five-sake flights start at $12 and can go up to $18, depending on the premium of the drinks. This particular flight will set you back $14.

Other libations at this location: In the mood for a cocktail? Try a Stormy Sake, a mix of sake and ginger beer, and its cousin, the Dark and Stormy Sake (Kraken rum makes it dark). There’s also the Kansas Twister (made with Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey and a syrup of oranges and almonds, topped with fresh mint) and a sake version of a bloody mary.