Get ready to cheers!
New York City is set to host one of the most anticipated sake events of the year on April 11 with the triumphant return of The Joy of Sake.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary since its debut in NYC in 2004, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience for sake enthusiasts and newcomers alike — and more than 500 sakes to try.
The Joy of Sake has earned its reputation as the world’s largest sake tasting outside Japan, and this year, it’s breaking records with an astounding 578 competition-level sakes available for tasting. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a vast array of sake styles, including premium daiginjo, ginjo, and junmai varieties from every sake-brewing region in Japan.
The event has grown exponentially over the years, starting with 124 sakes in 2001. More than 23 years and thousands of sake samples later, the event continues to set the standard for sake tastings worldwide.
Exciting newcomers to the event include recently opened establishments such as ILIS, Mishik, and Sake No Hana, joining returning favorites like Bond St, Sakagura, Gugu Room, Rule of Thirds, Cha An, Sen Sakana, Taru, Juban, Sen Sag Harbor, Amami Bar & Restaurant, Towa, Yopparai, and Zuma. This diverse lineup ensures that there’s something to delight every palate.
The Joy of Sake is more than just a tasting. The event is put on by its namesake nonprofit, whose mission is to promote and celebrate the ancient art and culture of sake making through gatherings of this kind.
Sake, often referred to as Japanese rice wine, has a rich and storied history deeply intertwined with Japanese culture and tradition. Its origins can be traced back over two millennia, with the earliest records of sake production dating to around the 3rd century AD.
At the event, sakes are grouped by category, allowing attendees to explore each style in depth. Over 300 of the sakes available are not otherwise accessible in the U.S., providing a rare opportunity for attendees to taste exclusive offerings.
The event will take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion, located at 125 W. 18th Street, NYC, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on April 11. Tickets are priced at $130 and can be purchased through the event’s website, joyofsake.com, or via Instagram at @joyofsake.
