Yuta Kobayashi’s fondness for sake stems from memories of days spent with his grandfather in Japan, who was partial to an afternoon glass sake – a drink that blurs the line between wine and spirit. Now based in Melbourne, Yuta has decided bring his fondness for the drink and passion for traditional Japanese sake to his Australian home. Yuta and his partner Sharlyn spent time travelling across Japan – from Niigata to Kyoto – to educate themselves on the work of Japan’s sake brewmasters, all the while formulating inspiration for their own sake brand. Tōji Sake is the result of this period of research – a Junmai Daiginjo sake (the highest grade available) brewed in Japan but targeted towards Australian drinkers with the aim of offering a new perspective on the traditional tipple.
Tōji Sake takes its name from the Japanese term for sake brewmasters, and Yuta has enlisted a top-tier tōji to help brew the premium beverage. Tōji Sake sources its ingredients from premium spots from across Japan, including Koshi-tanrei rice from the storied Niigata Prefecture and water from the Asahi mountain range. As for taste, well, this brand of sake is best served lightly chilled so as to allow drinkers to take in the subtle notes of apple that appears through the brewing process. Tōji Sake is currently available online in a stylish and minimalist packaging, and is gluten, additive and preservative-free.