Sake ONO has made its arrival in the UK, introducing a new audience to the craftsmanship, elegance and versatility of Japan’s national drink. Six months after its launch, the brand is championing sake for modern tastes, combining centuries-old brewing traditions from Niigata Prefecture with a fresh approach to presentation, pairing and service.
The idea for Sake ONO was born when the Yang, Cue and Azoff families, respected figures in the global music and technology industries, experienced exceptional sake during travels in Japan. Struck by its artistry and lack of recognition in Western markets, they set out to create a contemporary sake brand that would honour heritage while appealing to today’s discerning drinkers. The name has a dual meaning, translating as “small field” in Japanese and “delicious” in Hawaiian, a nod to both its cultural roots and flavour-led philosophy.
At the heart of the range is the flagship Junmai Daiginjo, the highest grade of sake, crafted using hand-selected rice, koji, yeast and pristine snowmelt water from Niigata. The result is a clean, aromatic expression with notes of honeydew melon, lemon peel, white floral and green apple, rounded by a soft umami finish. It has been designed for versatility, whether served chilled in a wine glass, paired with fine dining, or incorporated into elegant low-alcohol cocktails.
Sake ONO is already featured at some of the UK’s most notable addresses, including Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay (read our review here), Coya and the Mandarin Oriental. The brand is also making its mark in mixology, working with leading bartenders to create signature serves such as the ONO Vesper with Orientalist Gin and Poetry Vodka, the aromatic ONO Spritz with Italicus and yuzu, and the citrus-led ONO Daiquiri with rum and lychee liqueur.
Beyond the bar, Sake ONO encourages exploration in food pairing. It naturally complements oysters, sashimi and beef tartare, but also works with more unexpected dishes such as truffle risotto, aged cheeses, grilled peaches and dark chocolate desserts. Presented in 300ml and 750ml bottles, it offers a lighter, gluten-free and lower-alcohol alternative to wine or Champagne, aligning with current dining preferences.
Available through select venues, boutique retailers and via DrinksOne, it signals a sophisticated new chapter for premium sake in the UK.
