Joto Sake Tasting at the Good Fork Restaurant

How far would you travel for good sake? How about to the known edge of the sake universe? Or in other words: Red Hook! Henry Sidel, president of Joto Sake recently hosted an unforgettable sake night at the Good Fork Restaurant in far out there Red Hook, Brooklyn.

It may have been hard to get to for a hardened Manhattan-ite like me, but boy oh boy was it worth it. The event featured two Joto sake brewers – One brand new and one a long-time favorite. The New Brewer on the block was Mr. Nakao of Hiroshima’s Nakao Sake Brewery, maker of the Seikyo Brand. This brand is not yet known in the States, but it will be. The other Brewer at this dinner was Mr. Saito from the outstanding Saiya Brewery in Akita, makers of the famed Yuki no Bosha line of premium sakes.

Here is an overview of the pairing menu and sakes:

  • Scallop Sashimi + Nakao Seikyo “Omachi” Junmai Ginjo
  • Crab Stuffed Zuchinni Blossoms + Yuki No Bosha Junmai Ginjo
  • Crispy Chatham Cod + Nakao Seikyo Takehara Junmai
  • Manchester Farm Quail + Yuki No Bosha Junmai Ginjo Nigori
  • Croque en Bouche + Yuki No Bosha Daiginjo

This event was a fantastic coming together of the ‘best of the best’ sake on the outer reaches of New York City! I was so happy to have snagged a seat! Beyond tasting their sake, just being able to say hello to the brewery Presidents is such an honor! They are the “Rock Stars” of our industry and I always get a thrill getting to listen to and learn from them. Watch the restaurants and sake shops near you for Seikyo sake so you can taste this wonderful stuff for yourself. Many thanks to Henry, Nakao-san and Saito-san for the wonderful event! Kanpai!!

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