April 27, 2025 - Sake Tasting at NBC Seafood Restaurant, Monterey Park California

Sake, Stories, and Surprises: A Look Back at Our Latest Tasting Event

On April 27th, 2025,  we gathered with fellow sake lovers in NBC Seafood Restaurant for an afternoon that was equal parts educational, delicious, and downright fun. Our latest sake tasting event wasn't just about sipping, it was about sharing the stories behind the bottles, connecting with our community, and deepening the appreciation for this centuries-old Japanese craft.

From the moment guests walked in, glasses were filled with some of Japan’s finest brews. Our curated tasting lineup featured everything from crisp, aromatic Junmai Daiginjo to complex, savory Kimoto-style sakes. Each bottle was carefully selected to show the incredible diversity of sake, from different rice varietals and polish ratios to brewing regions and philosophies.

Guided by our sommelier, guests learned not only how to taste sake but how to listen to it: paying attention to temperature, pairing potential, and the brewer’s intent. For many, this was their first time enjoying sake outside of the usual sushi bar setting, and watching their reactions as they discovered new flavor profiles was truly rewarding.

A Raffle to Remember

To end the evening on a high note, we hosted a raffle featuring three exceptional bottles:

Shichiken Sparkling Sake – A festive, effervescent sake from Yamanashi that’s perfect for celebrations. Bright, clean, and refined.

Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute “Kanagaso” – Crafted by one of Japan’s most legendary toji, this sake is rich and expressive, honoring the Kanagaso region with every sip.

Hiryujoun – Translating to “a dragon soaring through the clouds,” this sake lives up to its name with bold, majestic flavor and depth.

Seeing the joy on our winners’ faces reminded us why we do what we do—sake has a way of bringing people together in the best way possible.

Thank You, and Kanpai!

To everyone who attended, helped pour, snapped photos, or simply came with an open mind and curious palate... thank you. You made this day memorable. Special thanks to our partners, sponsors, and volunteers who helped make it all run smoothly.

We’re already planning our next event (hint: summer might involve more bubbles). Be sure to follow us on Instagram [@saketarousa] and subscribe to our newsletter for early access to future tastings and giveaways.

Until then, drink well, stay curious, and kanpai!

For more event information, visit saketaro.eventbrite.com