#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Sake #Umetsu Sake #Yuzu Liquor

Explore the Essence of Umetsu Sake at a Unique Tasting Event

On August 19, 2026, a tasting event by Umetsu Sake Brewery will take place at the 'Tottori Okayama Shinbashi-kan' in Tokyo's Shinbashi district. Established in 1865 in Hokuei Town, Tottori Prefecture, this event promises to be a highlight for sake lovers and industry professionals alike.

Event Overview

The event consists of two main parts. The first segment runs from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM and is an open tasting session featuring more than 20 different types of sake, including the signature Junmai sake 'Furei'. Participants can experience various serving methods such as warm, chilled, and soda mixed. The admission fee for this session is 1,000 JPY (paid in cash on the day).

The second part, a social gathering from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, allows attendees to enjoy dishes crafted with local Tottori ingredients while mingling with fellow participants. This part has a participation fee of 5,000 JPY, and is limited to the first 50 guests to sign up.

Significance of the Event

As small regional breweries aim to expand their reach, events like this offer crucial opportunities for networking and firsthand product experiences. Umetsu’s products are already available in stores and restaurants throughout Tokyo and Osaka. However, few chances exist for vendors to directly engage with the brewery’s unique approach to sake and liqueur, enhancing their ability to confidently market these beverages to their customers.

During the tasting, attendees will gain insights into how to best serve each type of drink with specific foods, thus enriching the overall culinary experience.

Innovative Serving Suggestions

For those new to Umetsu’s offerings, the brewery emphasizes the elegance of warm sake as a traditional pairing, complemented by flavors akin to dashi broth that enhance culinary dishes. In the summer, the refreshing Yuzu Soda cocktail, with a ratio of 1 part yuzu to 3 parts soda, serves as a delightful alternative for those looking for a lighter taste. Alternatively, a tonic mix adds a gentle sweetness for those who enjoy flavorful beverages.

The event caters to all preferences, ensuring enjoyable options for both casual drinkers and enthusiasts alike.

Where to Taste and Purchase

Umetsu Sake is available at various locations in Tokyo, including Nakagawa Sake, and in Osaka at locations such as Sakebox Sakashita and Inoue Sake Store. For a complete list of purchase points, visit Umetsu's official site. Additionally, the brewery's online store offers direct access to their products.

Product and Crafting Philosophy

Since the brewery’s transition in 2005 to producing only pure rice sake, Umetsu has made a name for itself with its signature offerings like 'Furei', inspired by a cheer for sportsmanship. The water used for brewing is sourced from the subterranean streams of Daisen, allowing for a handcrafted approach that stands distinct among other breweries.

The brewery is also proud of its history, having published a book detailing archival findings that attracted significant crowdfunding support. This narrative has been featured in prominent media such as Yomiuri Shimbun and NHK.

A Message from the Brewer

Masayoshi Umetsu, the sixth-generation president, expresses excitement about the event: 'I believe this tasting session will allow many to explore the unique flavors from Umetsu Sake Brewery. Warm sake is fundamental in Japanese culture, often perceived as complex, but we aim to showcase its simplicity and delight during this experience. We hope to share our world with a wider audience and provide insights into our exceptional products.'

Join us at this remarkable event to discover the artistry that defines Umetsu Sake Brewery and indulge in a celebration of taste and tradition!