The 2019 instalment of the HYPER JAPAN Sake Experience was as popular as ever with over 800 visitors tasting a great selection of sakes and other Japanese drinks all weekend.
This year’s Sake Experience was the biggest yet with 27 different drinks from 9 breweries representing all regions of Japan, making it one of the largest selections of Japanese sake available anywhere in Europe.

Visitors to the Sake Experience voted for their favourite in each of three categories and the following three winners were announced at the end of the event on Sunday.

People’s Favourite

Yuzu Sake
Tosa Brewing Company
Type of Sake: Fruit Liqueur
ABV: 15%
Best Served: Chilled

A refreshing fruit liqueur combining sake made with locally produced rice and yuzu. It goes well with grilled lemon chicken and white fish carpaccio, as well as being the perfect companion to herbs such as basil and rosemary, and fruit.

Best Sake for Sake Beginners

Shirakabegura MIO Sparkling Sake
Type of Sake: Sparkling
Rice Variety: Gohyakumangoku
Rice Polish Ratio / ABV: 60% / 5%
Best Served: Chilled

This gently carbonated, low-alcohol sake showcases the natural sweetness and fruitiness of rice. A great introductory sake, ideal as an aperitif or served with a light sweet course, such as fruit or sorbet.

Best Match with Non-Japanese Food

Kikusui Funaguchi Gold
Type of Sake: Honjozo
Rice Variety: Gohyakumangoku
Rice Polish Ratio / ABV: 70% / 19%
Best Served: On the Rocks, Chilled

Bold and bolshy, rich with dates, molasses and dried fruits. Canned straight from the tank to preserve the delicate flavour of undiluted, unpasteurised nama sake. Try with lamb chops, Korean BBQ, Camembert or Mozarella cheese.