Sake Master class: Discover the Character of Sake Rice

Not just a sake master class. This event explores the role of sake rice. Discover how rice shapes flavour, texture, and character.
About this Event

A special Sake Master class, we will focus on one of the most important elements of sake. sake rice.

Same brewery. Same rice polishing ratio.
The only difference is the rice variety itself.

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This is not just another sake masterclass.

For this special evening, we dive into the world of sake rice.
Most people know that grape varieties shape the character of wine.

But have you ever wondered what creates the distinctive personalities of different sake?Join us for an evening that challenges expectations and explores a completely new sake pairing experience.

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For this unique tasting experience, we will showcase a remarkable lineup from Eikun Shuzo, an acclaimed brewery located in Shizuoka, Japan. By tasting sakes produced by the same brewery and crafted to the same polishing ratio, participants can focus on the one element that changes everything—the rice variety itself.

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From the elegance of Yamadanishiki to the richness of Omachi, the delicacy of Miyamanishiki, and the aromatic intensity of Aiyama, each rice variety reveals its own distinct personality in aroma, texture, flavour, balance, and finish.

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This is a rare opportunity to experience sake in a way that few people ever do: isolating a single variable and discovering firsthand how profoundly sake rice shapes the final character of the drink.

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Much like comparing grape varieties in wine, this tasting offers a deeper understanding of how ingredients influence flavour and craftsmanship.

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Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, 16 June 2026

Time: 7:00pm Start

Place: Kura - Robata & Sake (Shop 1 / 22-30 Lygon St, Brunswick East 3057)

Price: $138.97

Ticket includes:

• 4 sake selections from the same brewery with different sake rice varieties
• 4 special dishes By ken Ibuki
• A guided sake masterclass focused on sake rice character

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Course 1: Merimbula (NSW) Oyster served with shiso mignonette

Course 2: Spencer Gulf Kingfish & New Zealand Ora King Salmon sashimi

Course 3: Poached Hokkaido Scallop in Kura's soy butter, ittogakki (smoked shaved tuna)

Course 4: Woodfired flank steak sansho pepper corn sauce, house pickled cherry tomato with sesame and whipped tofu

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A rare opportunity to understand sake from its foundation — the rice itself.

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This is a limited seating event.

Please let us know about any dietary requirements or allergies by 14 June at [email protected].

She is a Melbourne-based SSA sake sommelier educator and the founder of Sake Journey, a platform dedicated to presenting Japanese sake with precision, elegance, and a contemporary sensibility. Through meticulously curated tastings, bespoke pairings, and exclusive dining collaborations, she creates elevated, immersive experiences that reveal the quiet complexity and refined beauty of sake.

Her events are designed to guide guests through the nuanced world of sake—exploring differences in rice varietals, regional identity, and brewing techniques—while maintaining a sense of ease and refinement.

At the core of her work is a deep respect for craftsmanship and storytelling. By connecting guests with the people, places, and philosophies behind each bottle, Kana offers a perspective that elevates sake beyond the glass. Her approach positions sake as both a luxury beverage and a cultural art form, creating moments of discovery that are intimate, polished, and memorable.

KURA

Brunswick’s newest modern Japanese restaurant.

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“Kura” means cellar in Japanese and it’s all in the name – a treasure trove of saké awaits guests as the perfect compliment to Robata-yaki dishes.

What is Robata-yaki?

Flame-grilled, flavour-packed dishes inspired by traditional methods of cooking over binchōtan (Japanese charcoal).

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They offer a special lunch set with sake pairing menu for this event.

They can accommodate pescatarian and vegetarian options as well.

If you have any dietary requirements, please contact kana@sake-journey with your booking details.

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NOMU Saketen is a Melbourne-based sake importer, dedicated to showcasing the depth, diversity, and heritage of Japanese sake.

Working closely with carefully selected breweries in Shizuoka, Japan, NOMU curates a refined selection that reflects craftsmanship, regional identity, and tradition.

Through tastings and curated experiences, NOMU bridges Japanese sake culture with contemporary dining in Australia, offering an introduction that is both approachable and considered.