Akashi Tai Sake get UK listing

The Akashi-Tai Sake Brewery, which has made premium artisanal Japanese beverages for over 140 years, is distributing its range of premium Sakes in the UK on- and off-trade sectors, via brand builder, Malcolm Cowen.

Tazaki Foods will handle distribution within the Japanese restaurant sector, on behalf of Malcolm Cowen. Akashi-Tai is a family-owned Sake producer, which specialises in traditional methods of production, and, as the first producer to create a brown rice Sake, also takes an innovative approach.

The Akashi-Tai portfolio of Sakes comprises the three key styles: traditional Honjozo, elegant Daiginjo and innovative Genmai (brown rice) aged sake, with RRPs ranging from 10.39 to 28.00.

Wakana Omija, international brand development manager for Akashi-Tai Sake Brewery, commented: "the UK has seen an explosion of interest in Japanese culture, specifically its cuisine, so the increased market for Sake is inevitable. We are targeting high end retailers, restaurants and bars, taking an educational approach with our portfolio as there is still an air of mystery surrounding Sake, which can lead to confusion for the consumer. We are aiming to simplify the category, whilst ensuring that the authenticity, provenance, individual styles, ways of serving and cultural associations are conveyed."

Source: Malcolm Cowen