Sake, Sommeliers, and Summer in Japan

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a sommelier-in-training is that wine is just one chapter in a much larger story of beverages. A true sommelier should understand sake—its history, its craft, and how it pairs with food just as elegantly as any fine wine. So when we had the chance to visit Japan this July, we knew that exploring sake was not optional—it was essential.

A Sake Journey with Ninja Food Tours

Enter Ninja Food Tours, the company that made our sake education not only seamless but unforgettable. They offer hands-on food and drink experiences that go far beyond typical tours. We joined their sake class, which turned out to be the perfect blend of education, tasting, and pure fun.

From the moment we walked in, we knew this wasn’t going to be a dry lecture. Our guide, equal parts expert and storyteller, walked us through the sake-making process—how rice is polished, fermented, and nurtured with precision to create a drink that can range from delicate and floral to rich and savory. It was fascinating to see the parallels between sake and wine—both deeply influenced by their raw ingredients, their regions, and the philosophy of their makers.

Tasting the Spectrum of Sake

Then came the best part: tasting. We sampled an incredible range of sakes, from crisp, refreshing ginjo styles to more robust, umami-rich junmai daiginjo varieties. Each sip revealed something new—flavors of melon, pear, rice, even faint herbal notes. The tasting felt like an adventure in itself, with each pour offering a story about the region and brewery it came from.

By the end of the class, we weren’t just sipping sake—we were starting to understand its structure, much like we do with wine. I left with a newfound appreciation for how versatile and complex sake can be, and how much it deserves a seat at the sommelier’s table.

Why Ninja Food Tours Stands Out

Ninja Food Tours didn’t just teach us about sake—they gave us a cultural experience. Their team’s passion and depth of knowledge were contagious, and they made the whole class interactive and engaging. It was clear that they take pride in showcasing not just the drinks, but the stories of Japan’s culinary traditions.

Final Thoughts

If you ever find yourself in Japan, I can’t recommend Ninja Food Tours enough. Whether you’re a sake novice or a budding sommelier, their classes will leave you with both knowledge and memories you’ll treasure.

This trip reminded me of one simple truth: being a sommelier isn’t just about wine—it’s about exploring every corner of the beverage world with curiosity and respect. And after our summer in Japan, I can confidently say that sake now holds a special place on my list.

Alex, Founder of Wine Scholars