#Australia #SAKE HUNDRED #Australian Sake Awards #Cellar Mates #Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra

SAKE HUNDRED's Cultural Exchange Events in Australia

Japan's sake brand, SAKE HUNDRED, has successfully organized a series of five unique sake pairing events across four major Australian cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra, from July 22 to July 26, 2025. The events were designed to promote cultural exchange and showcase the incredible potential of sake in Australia, utilizing the expertise of the local distributor, Cellar Mates.

A Partnership with Local Culinary Excellence

The pairing events provided guests with a unique opportunity to explore the exquisite tastes of SAKE HUNDRED’s offerings, including notable selections such as Byakko Bespoke, Niko, Hakuso, and Amairom. Each event was tailored to enhance the culinary experience through the harmonious match of food and sake.

1. A Majestic Evening at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne

On July 22, SAKE HUNDRED hosted its first event at the Atria restaurant located on the 80th floor of the Ritz-Carlton in Melbourne. This exceptional venue offered breathtaking views and high-quality modern Australian cuisine, prepared by acclaimed chefs. The event saw participation from 17 notable guests, including chefs, restaurant managers, and sommeliers, who praised SAKE HUNDRED's offerings, asserting that they perfectly complemented the culinary delights presented.

2. A Culinary Journey at Ippin Japanese Dining, Brisbane

The next event took place on July 23 at Ippin Japanese Dining in Brisbane, noted for its recognition as a finalist in the Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat awards for two consecutive years. Attendees enjoyed a lively display featuring the traditional art of tuna cutting, paired with renowned SAKE HUNDRED varieties. Feedback from guests reflected surprise and delight at the quality of the sake, affirming their enjoyment of the experience.

3. Arts and Sake at Canvas Restaurant, Sydney

On July 25, guests gathered at Canvas, the rooftop restaurant of the Australian Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney. With stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the evening celebrated the arts through a culinary lens. Various mouthwatering sake pairings featured beef tartare with Niko, tuna with Hakuso, and more, showcasing the exquisite versatility of sake. Guests expressed that this concept should be embraced by more restaurants, highlighting their overall satisfaction with the experience.

4. Elevating Japanese Cuisine at R by Raita Noda, Sydney

The final pairing event was hosted on July 26 at R by Raita Noda in Sydney—a restaurant renowned for its elevated interpretation of Japanese cuisine. Guests indulged in meticulously crafted dishes designed specifically to harmonize with SAKE HUNDRED's selections, further solidifying partnerships between SAKE HUNDRED and local culinary leaders.

5. A Diplomatic Luncheon in Canberra

Adding to the cultural significance of these events, a special luncheon took place in Canberra, uniting SAKE HUNDRED’s brand owner, Ryushi Ikoma, with esteemed officials, including the Australian Ambassador, Osamu Suzuki, and government representative Brendan Smith. The event not only showcased sake but also emphasized the mutual vision of revitalizing Japan's primary industries through cultural and economic exchanges.

Recognition and Future Prospects

SAKE HUNDRED's efforts in Australia extend beyond these events. Recently, the brand received significant accolades at the Australian Sake Awards 2025, where the sake Raihi was awarded the prestigious platinum prize, and three of their entries, including Raihi and Amairom, received the coveted Judge’s Choice Award. This strong recognition illustrates the growing appreciation for sake in Australia, where the demand for quality beverages continues to surge.

As a country ranked as the eighth-largest market for sake exports, Australia has seen a remarkable 4.4-fold increase in its sake consumption over the past 15 years. This exponential growth indicates robust potential for further development, making Australia a key player in the global sake market.

With a mission to enrich and color the lives of people worldwide, SAKE HUNDRED is poised to continue forging connections and offering unique experiences that celebrate the cultural richness of sake. Through high-quality products and significant partnerships, SAKE HUNDRED is not just selling a beverage; it is fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Japanese culture across the globe.