Contrary to popular belief, Japanese sake is not made from grain, it is actually made from rice. More specifically, it is made from highly polished, specially grown sake rice that has a higher starch content than other types of rice. Sake brewing involves a process of converting the starch into sugar, which is then fermented into alcohol. The type of rice used, as well as the unique brewing methods of each sake brewery, can affect the flavor, aroma, and texture of the final product.