One reason why sake has recently grown in popularity around the world, is that its smooth flavour goes well with a wide range of food, including sushi, says Max Del Vita, a certified sake sommelier and co-founder of The Sake Company, an import and distribution retailer in Singapore.
Japan's most famous drink sake is now protected with UNESCO status Brewers believe traditional Japanese drink will see a renaissance now it has gained a world heritage listing.
Whilst the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage designation is not a badge for commercial purposes, sake officials hope that there will be a boost in global sales, to help the tradition remain alive.
On December 4, 2024, UNESCO recognised Japan's ancient process of sake brewing as an "intangible cultural heritage".
Sake, a traditional rice wine known as nihonshu, ranks as one of Japan's most famous exports alongside sushi.
