Class Description

What is sake? How is it made? What are the different types? How do you drink it? Pacific Rim Foods is excited to have sake expert Michael John Simkin, director of sales & marketing for Omurasaki Beverage Company, take us on a deep dive into the history, culture, brewing techniques and varieties of Japan's national drink. In addition to sampling different sakes, we will be providing a traditional bento dinner. About the instructor: Michael is a certified Level III saké educator for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), an organization for whom he was instrumental in adding saké to the curriculum at the behest of the Niigata Saké Brewers’ Association and Niigata Prefectural Government. His gregarious personality and engaging charisma have landed him on stage at numerous Japan Society locations across the US, a National Geographic conference in the nation’s capital, an American Museum of National History program, and as a frequent anchor speaker for the Society of Wine Educators. Michael is an oft-quoted saké authority for national print and digital media outlets, including New York Daily News and Los Angeles Business Journal. His vast network of wine and spirit industry professionals and his keenly honed knowledge of the journey from the rice paddy to the world’s finest tables distinguishes Michael as a highly prized saké industry expert. He bridges the gap between businesses in the USA and Japan. His joining the Omurasaki Beverage Company team as Director of Sales and Marketing during the brand’s genesis is a full-circle moment, capitalizing on Michael’s holistic approach to the philosophy of saké. Working with the team that choreographed the Uka journey from heirloom California organic rice to artisanally crafted junmai daiginjō epitomizes Michael’s lifelong commitment to quality. He is the quintessential ambassador for the brand.