John Anthony Wine & Spirits Launches Hachidori Sake

Published
10/05/2024 by

John Anthony Wine & Spirits proudly announces the launch of Hachidori Sake, a line of premium, authentic Japanese Sakes crafted by Sake Master, Stuart Morris. Hachidori, which translates to "hummingbird" and has great significance in Japanese culture, made its debut at Sake Day 2024 in San Francisco, introducing the collection which includes three exceptional Sake styles: Junmai, Junmai Ginjo, and Daiginjo. It is believed that if a tiny hummingbird can appear stationary in mid-flight, anything is possible. Hachidori Sake represents the art of the impossible, masterfully blending Japanese tradition, innovation and the impossible pursuit of exceptional, authentic Japanese Sake by Morris.

Following a chance meeting in 2023, Hachidori Sake was conceived by John Anthony Truchard, Founder and CEO of John Anthony Wine & Spirits in partnership with Morris. Their shared vision was to introduce authentic Japanese Sakes to the American market which has become increasingly curious to explore cultures through culinary experiences.

"Hachidori is the culmination of a 25-year journey and a testament to the power of passion and perseverance," said Stuart Morris, Sake Master and Hachidori Sake Brewer, who joined John Anthony Wine & Spirits after a storied career at numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and renowned sushi establishments. "As one of the few non-Japanese natives to achieve Master of Sake status and craft premium Sakes at a foremost Japanese brewery, I've dedicated my life to understanding and honoring the culture, tradition, and styles of Japanese Sake. With Hachidori, we're bringing that authenticity and craftsmanship to the American consumer in a way that's approachable and food-friendly across many cuisines."

The debut Hachidori lineup includes:

  • Hachidori Junmai: A light, bright sake with notes of cucumber, green apple, steamed rice, and citrus zest. It features an intriguing umami mid-palate and ends with a clean, dry finish.
  • Hachidori Junmai Ginjo: A full-flavored Sake highlighting honeydew melon, white raspberry, and green banana with hints of jasmine. It offers a refreshing finish with ample acidity.
  • Hachidori Daiginjo: A beautifully-balanced Sake with a complex mouthfeel full of lush, ripe fruit such as crisp apple, cantaloupe, and Asian pear. The mid-palate has tones of hazelnut and fennel pollen with a long, focused finish.

"As we begin our journey expanding our portfolio outside of the wine category, Hachidori Sake will embody our continued commitment to creating remarkable new beverages that capture the best of tradition and terroir," expresses John Anthony Truchard, Founder and CEO of John Anthony Wine & Spirits. "By partnering with Stuart, a true master of his craft, to honor the heritage of Japanese Sake brewing, we've created something truly special that we're excited to share with the world."

Hachidori Sakes are crafted at Shindo Brewery, a 10th-generation family-run brewery in the heart of Yamagata Prefecture, known for its dedication to both tradition and innovation. The brewery uses premium Sake rice grown on-site and pristine mountain water, which lends Hachidori Sakes their characteristic crisp, clean finish.

"The confluence of terroir, ingredients, timeless tradition, and our pursuit of perfection with a fresh approach truly set Hachidori Sakes apart," added Morris, who was trained under Masanobu Shindo, 10th-generation brewer and president of Shindo Brewery. "We're proud to offer Sakes that showcase the diverse, high-quality flavors of Yamagata, ranging from light and floral to rich and full-bodied, with a balanced blend of umami, sweetness, and acidity."

Available in select fine restaurants and retail locations, Hachidori Sake invites America to embark on a journey of taste and tradition, offering an authentic Japanese Sake experience for discerning drinkers. Hachidori is the perfect addition to premium beverage lists at restaurants ranging from traditional to modern, from by the glass, to flights, to by the bottle. Contact Hachidori Sake to join some of America's finest chefs and restaurateurs and learn more about adding these premium Sakes to your beverage list: www.hachidorisake.com