SHIBUYA | Sake Tasting Session With Certificated Sommelier

Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district sets the stage for an immersive sake tasting experience led by a certified sommelier with an impressive resume. Set out on a captivating journey through the rich history, production techniques, and diverse flavor profiles of this iconic Japanese spirit. From light and crisp Ginjo-shu to bold and complex Junmai-shu, you’ll have the opportunity to savor a curated selection of premium sake varieties while gaining a deeper understanding and newfound appreciation for this beloved cultural treasure. What secrets will this WGSA award-winning sommelier unveil as they guide you through this unforgettable tasting adventure?

Key Points

Immersive sake tasting experience led by a certified sommelier with extensive expertise, including work with the National Beverage Promotion department and Sake Sommelier Association.
Opportunity to learn about sake production, flavor profiles, and etiquette, with a one-hour duration for in-depth exploration and appreciation.
Diverse selection of sake varieties, including Ginjo-shu, Daiginjo-shu, Junmai-shu, and Nigori-zake, to explore distinct flavor profiles and production methods.
Centrally located in Shibuya, Tokyo, with convenient access to public transportation and a variety of accommodation options.
Unique learning opportunities to gain deeper understanding and appreciation for sake’s rich history, culture, and significance in Japanese traditions and daily life.

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Sake Tasting Experience With Certified Sommelier

Partaking in a sake tasting session with a certified sommelier offers participants an immersive journey into the rich culture and history of this celebrated Japanese beverage.

During the unlimited tasting, the sommelier, who boasts an impressive resume including work in the National Beverage Promotion department and representation for the Sake Sommelier Association, will guide attendees through a variety of sake styles.

Guests can expect to learn about the intricacies of sake production, the nuances of flavor profiles, and the etiquette surrounding this time-honored tradition.

With a duration of one hour, the experience provides ample opportunity to expand one’s sake knowledge and appreciation. Participants will also receive a souvenir, making this an unforgettable cultural encounter.

Exploring Sake Culture and History

During the sake tasting experience, the certified sommelier provides valuable insights into the captivating culture and rich history behind this revered Japanese beverage.

Sake’s origins can be traced back centuries, with its production techniques and flavor profiles evolving over generations. The sommelier explains how sake is deeply woven into Japan’s traditions and customs, used in ceremonies, festivals, and daily life.

Guests learn about the significance of sake cups, the importance of rice polishing, and the role of koji mold in the fermentation process. The tasting session offers a immersive opportunity to appreciate sake’s nuances, from light and crisp to bold and complex.

Through the sommelier’s expertise, participants gain a deeper understanding and newfound respect for this iconic Japanese spirit.

Sommelier’s Sake Variety Selection

SHIBUYA | Sake Tasting Session With Certificated Sommelier

The certified sommelier carefully selects a diverse array of sake varieties, each offering unique flavor profiles and production methods, to guide participants through an educational and captivating tasting journey. The selection may include:

Ginjo-shu, a premium sake with a refined and aromatic character
Daiginjo-shu, the highest grade of sake, showcasing delicate and complex flavors
Junmai-shu, a pure, full-bodied sake made without added distilled alcohol
Nigori-zake, an unfiltered, cloudy sake with a creamy, rich texture

Unlimited Sake Tasting Session Details

SHIBUYA | Sake Tasting Session With Certificated Sommelier

The sake tasting session offers participants an unlimited opportunity to sample a diverse range of premium sake varieties, guided by the expertise of the certified sommelier.

Lasting for an hour, the session takes place in Shibuya, Tokyo, providing easy access from local accommodation.

The sommelier, with their extensive experience in the National Beverage Promotion department and as a representative instructor for the Sake Sommelier Association, will meticulously select and explain the distinct characteristics of each sake.

Attendees will also receive a souvenir, such as small cups, to commemorate their tasting journey.

However, the event isn’t suitable for children under 18 or babies under 1 year.

Sake Tasting Amenities and Exclusions

Participants receive a souvenir, such as small cups, to commemorate their sake tasting experience.

The sake tasting session is held in an easy-to-access location in Shibuya, Tokyo, making it convenient for attendees.

However, the event isn’t suitable for children under 18 or babies under 1 year.

The amenities offered include:

Souvenir (small cups or others)
Easy access from accommodation
Unlimited sake tasting under the guidance of a certified sommelier
Learning opportunities about sake culture and history

While the tasting session is designed for adults, the organizers ensure a comfortable and educational experience for all participants.

WGSA Award-Winning Sommelier Credentials

The sake sommelier leading the tasting session has impressive credentials, having served as a representative instructor for the Sake Sommelier Association (SSA) and a judge at the prestigious WGSA (Wine Glass Sake Award) competition in 2022. This sommelier’s expertise extends beyond just tasting and evaluating sake – they have also worked in the National Beverage Promotion (JSS) department, demonstrating a deep understanding of the Japanese sake industry. The sommelier’s role as a WGSA judge in 2022 further underscores their exceptional abilities, as they were entrusted with the task of assessing and recognizing the finest sake offerings from around the world. With this level of experience and recognition, participants can expect an insightful and enlightening sake tasting experience.

Credential	Description	Year
SSA Representative Instructor	Represents the Sake Sommelier Association in educational initiatives	–
WGSA Judge	Judged entries at the prestigious Wine Glass Sake Award competition	2022
JSS Department	Worked in the National Beverage Promotion department	–

Convenient Shibuya Location for Tasting

Conveniently situated in the vibrant Shibuya district, the sake tasting session provides easy access from nearby accommodations, allowing participants to enjoy the experience with minimal travel hassle.

The Shibuya location offers several advantages:

Centrally located in one of Tokyo’s most dynamic neighborhoods, known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and nightlife
Well-connected to the city’s extensive public transportation network, making it simple for attendees to arrive from various parts of the metropolitan area
Surrounded by a wide array of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to upscale hotels, catering to the diverse needs of visitors
Offering the opportunity to explore the vibrant Shibuya area before or after the tasting, enhancing the overall culture.

Unique Learning Opportunities for Attendees

Attendees frequently gain valuable insights into the rich culture and storied history of sake during the tasting session, as the certified sommelier skillfully guides them through the unique characteristics of various sake varieties. The sommelier’s extensive experience, including their work with the National Beverage Promotion (JSS) department and role as a Sake Sommelier Association (SSA) representative instructor, allows them to share a wealth of knowledge. Attendees can expect to learn about the diverse flavor profiles, regional origins, and production methods that contribute to sake’s complexity and nuance.

Sake Type	Flavor Profile	Region of Origin	Production Method
Junmai	Robust, earthy	Akita	Polished rice only
Ginjo	Fruity, fragrant	Niigata	High-quality rice, special yeast
Daiginjo	Delicate, refined	Hyogo	Highly polished rice, slow fermentation
Honjozo	Balanced, smooth	Hiroshima	Distilled alcohol added

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Sake Bottles to the Tasting?

No, participants typically cannot bring their own sake bottles to a guided tasting session. The sommelier will provide a selection of sakes for the tasting, allowing attendees to fully experience the expertise and curation of the professional sommelier.

Is There a Dress Code for the Sake Tasting Session?

There’s typically no strict dress code for sake tasting sessions. Guests can dress comfortably in casual attire. However, it’s best to avoid overly revealing or sloppy clothing out of respect for the experience and the sommelier leading the tasting.

Can I Take the Sake Home After the Tasting Session?

No, participants typically can’t take the sake home after the tasting session. The sake is meant to be consumed during the event under the sommelier’s guidance. Any leftover sake is usually disposed of to ensure quality and safety.

Do You Offer Vegetarian or Non-Alcoholic Options During the Tasting?

The activity doesn’t offer vegetarian or non-alcoholic options during the sake tasting session. The experience is focused on exploring a variety of sake varieties with a certified sommelier guide.

Can I Request a Specific Sake to Be Included in the Tasting?

Guests can certainly request specific sake to be included in the tasting. The sommelier will do their best to accommodate individual preferences and provide a personalized experience, subject to availability and the curated tasting lineup.

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