Events

On November 1st, the Premium Sake Association and the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations held a Sake Tasting Reception at the United Nations Delegates Dining Room.

The reception opened with a koto and cello performance by DUO YUMENO, and was followed by welcoming remarks from Ambassador Yoshikawa and Mr. Miyasaka, Chairman of the Japan Premium Sake Association. The official start of this special event was commemorated with “kagami-biraki” (sake barrel breaking) performance and a toast.

A variety of flavors from 48 sake breweries from throughout Japan were featured at the reception, and 23 sake masters were present to explain the unique characteristics of ultra-premium sake to guests.

More than two hundred people attended this first ever Sake Tasting Reception at the UN, including three Under-Secretaries-General and twenty seven Permanent Representatives of UN Missions. Many guests left the reception elated and with a greater appreciation for Japanese sake. The Reception was widely covered by the Japanese media.

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Performance by New York-residing Japanese musicians "DUO YUMENO"

Ambassador Yoshikawa gives opening remarks

Mr. Miyasaka, Chirman of the Japan Premium Sake Association, gives remarks

"Kagami-biraki" (Sake Barrel Opening ceremony)  (From left to right) Mr. Miguel de Serpa Soares, Under-Secretary-General of the Office of Legal Affairs,  Ambassador Yoshikawa, Mr. Miyasaka, Chairman of the Japan Premium Sake Association, H.E. Mr. Ismael Abraão Gaspar Martins, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Angola to the United Nations.

Scene from the Sake Tasting Reception

One of the Sake Masters present discusses the qualities of his sake with a guest.