Bibendum launches sake range

Bibendum is to launch a range of premium sakes aimed at the on-trade and independent merchants to satisfy “increasing demand”.

Bibendum will have a core range of 15 sakes from small and medium-sized breweries particularly four key producers: Akita Shurui Seizo, Niizawa, Shiraki and Tenzan Shuzo, and the range will launch in April this year.

In addition, the Kaze No Mori range of unpasteurised sakes from the Yucho Shuzo brewery will also be available later this year.

Managing director, Michael Saunders, said: “Sake is an incredibly exciting category and we are constantly being asked for it by top restaurants and independent merchants as no one is currently fulfilling the demand.

“We have spotted a gap in the market and are filling it with a brilliant range of products, including unusual aged and non-pasteurised sakes. The interest from our customers has already been incredible.”

The range was put together with the help of sake expert and founder of the Museum of Sake, Natsuki Kikuya (pictured).

She added: “I am delighted that a major wine and spirits merchant like Bibendum has added Sake to its portfolio – and that it is launching such a strong range of breweries and styles. I am looking forward to working with them to transform the profile of Sake within the UK trade.”