for estimated arrival late July-early August, 2025
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Chef Jo Takasaki hardly needs any introduction here. Many of you have met him or had the pleasure of enjoying his atsukan/okan (warmed sake) at Sunflower's classes, Fuyu Fest 2024 & 2025, during last February's Okan Lover West Coast Tour, or even at his Tokyo restaurant, Takasaki no Okan (we've dined there 5 times and it is always stunning, mind boggling good-- it comes with my highest recommendation).
Jo decided some years ago he wanted to share the craft of hot sake with the world and reverse the wholly undeserved negative image it has garnered in the last few decades. Through his hot sake philosophy, he would also spread the word on the importance of natural farming in Japan, quality rice, supporting rural revitalization, and building community.
While sake warming at home can be as simple as just having a favorite brew and a preferred temperature that you reach by microwave or water bath, as is often the case w/ Japanese craft the sky is truly the limit. Sensing readiness by smell, using different chirori materials, stirring/aeration technique, water bath temperature, selecting serveware, pairing with food effectively, blending and infusing... there are a million ways to play, reinvent, revitalize.
I was thrilled when Jo said he was writing a book and having it translated/published in English to support this mission. We're incredibly honored to be entrusted with bringing it to the US.
Of course, if you're heading to his Tokyo restaurant you can also buy it in person from Jo for 8800 yen. (Jo is making the same $$ either way-- we pay retail, not a wholesale price, but you can save on shipping + our little margin this way).
Please note that the $95 does NOT include US shipping.
To ship the book by itself, please select the "add shipping" option- $10 by USPS. To pick up in person or ship the book with sake (including a forthcoming club pack), please select the "book only" option.
A simplified summary of Jo's atsukan principles
Jo's approach, background & philosophy
Thanks to uyati for the photos- he bought one at Jo's recent Amsterdam event and spoke very highly of it!