The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) is thrilled to announce “The Art of Japanese Liquor,” an intimate get-together which aims to showcase the diverse selection of Japan’s finest and most beloved liquors, placing emphasis on the art and science behind their craftsmanship. This event is part of “Bringing You A Taste of Japan”, JETRO’s campaign to promote Japanese culture, traditions, and products in the Philippine market.
The “Art of Japanese Liquor” event highlights the exceptional quality and diverse range of Japanese liquor. This carefully curated experience intends to demonstrate the liquor’s versatility, inviting guests to enjoy it neat or as a unique infusion in culinary creations. By seamlessly blending the art and science behind Japanese liquor craftsmanship into the menu, JETRO aims to underscore the meticulous skill and expertise involved, cultivating a deeper appreciation for Japanese liquor and contributing to increased exports.
The event also serves as a celebration of the rich history of Japanese liquor and its significant contribution to the global market. With a tradition dating back centuries, Japanese liquor, including Sake and other spirits, has evolved into an art form. Its craftsmanship is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
For this special dinner, the Philippine Wine Merchants (PWM), Mitsukoshi FRESH, and High Tower Incorporated (HTI) will be providing some of the best liquors from Japan.
On January 31st, premium Sake takes center stage with Amabuki Tokubetsu, Junmai Yamadanishiki, Chokarakuchi Namasake from Northwest Kyushu in Saga Prefecture, Hakkaisan Tokubetsu Junmai from Niigata Prefecture, Masamune “Malola” Junmai Ginjo from Yamagata Prefecture, and Mutsu Hassen Ginjo “Pink Label” from Aomori Prefecture.
For February 1st, guests will be enjoying Japanese-inspired cocktails highlighting Japanese spirits from Mitsukoshi FRESH with carefully selected ingredients: Nihon Sidecar (Daiyame Sweet Potato Shochu, Lemon Juice, Cointreau, Aperol, Brown Sugar), Kagoshima Gimlet (Kakushigura Barrel Barley Shochu, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup), Sakagura Martini (Kakushigura Barrel Barley Shochu, Tanqueray Gin, Masamune “Malola” Junmai Ginjo Sake, Takara Mio Sparkling Sake), and Yuzu Margarita (Daiyame Sweet Potato Shochu, Arette Blanco Tequila, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup).
On both nights, Japanese bar and restaurant Sakagura (created by the same people behind popular Japanese robatayaki, Nikkei) will host the exclusive experience highlighting premium Japanese spirits and beverages. The culinary team, led by chefs Yonemoto Kazumasa and Richie Buenaventura, will serve deliciously authentic Japanese specialties to pair with liquors from various regions in the Land of the Rising Sun. Guests will enjoy Sakagura Chef’s Choice Sashimi with some of the freshest seasonal Japanese seafood, Handrolls or Temaki, Hamachi Tataki, grilled miso-glazed Bone Marrow, and grilled Wagyu Skewers.
In celebration of the restaurant group’s contribution to promoting Japanese culture and cuisine, JETRO presented The Nikkei Group with the Japanese Food Supporters (JFS) Certification. This recognition is “given to restaurants and retailers who use authentic Japanese food products and alcoholic beverages and promote their appeal of Japanese food to a broad range of people.” In attendance were Mr. Carlo G. Lorenzana and Mrs. Jackie Lorenzana, Managing Directors and Owners of The Nikkei Group, while Ms. Mareycris Gonowon (Business Development Manager) and Ms. Monica Modomo (PR & Communications Manager) accepted the award on behalf of the company.
The “The Art of Japanese Liquor” culinary event is just one of the many activities mounted by JETRO as part of the “Bringing You A Taste of Japan” campaign in Metro Manila.