Forest Grove, Oregon – In a remarkable display of brewing prowess, Oregon-based SakéOne has once again distinguished itself on the national stage, securing Silver Medals for both its Momokawa Diamond and Momokawa Silver sakés at the prestigious 2025 U.S. National Sake Appraisal. This significant achievement marks the second year in a row that SakéOne has been the sole American brewery to earn accolades at the highly competitive event, underscoring its pioneering role in the craft saké industry.
A Benchmark for American Saké Excellence
The 2025 U.S. National Sake Appraisal, established in 2001, is recognized as the oldest and most respected saké evaluation held outside of Japan. This year’s competition featured an impressive 492 entries submitted by 153 breweries from across the globe, with the vast majority hailing from Japan’s renowned saké-producing regions. A distinguished panel of 11 expert judges, comprising nine international experts from Japan and two from the United States, conducted a rigorous blind tasting. They meticulously evaluated each entry based on critical criteria including aroma, taste, balance, and overall impression. Among the thirteen American saké breweries that participated, SakéOne was the only one to receive any medals, a testament to the exceptional quality of its offerings.
SakéOne’s Dual Recognition
The awarding of Silver Medals to Momokawa Diamond and Momokawa Silver is a significant accomplishment, placing SakéOne’s craft brews among the elite, competing directly with some of Japan’s finest. This repeated success reinforces SakéOne’s standing as a leader in advancing the art of saké brewing in America. Paul Englert, President of SakéOne, commented on the achievement, stating, “SakéOne was founded with the belief that saké could thrive in America if brewed with authenticity, respect, and innovation. These medals affirm that vision, but more importantly, they honor the remarkable work of our brewers, who continue to push the boundaries of craft saké in Oregon”.
Takumi Kuwabara, Toji/Master Brewer at SakéOne, added, “At SakéOne, we strive every day to honor centuries of Japanese brewing tradition while expressing what makes Oregon unique. To see Momokawa recognized on this stage is a great encouragement, and I am deeply grateful to our team for the care they put into every step of the brewing process”. Kuwabara, who specializes in premium, high-end saké, leads the brewing team, building on the brewery’s legacy.
A Pioneer in Oregon’s Craft Beverage Scene
SakéOne’s journey began in 1992 as an importer of premium Japanese saké, but the company soon recognized the potential for high-quality saké production in the United States. In 1997, SakéOne established its brewing operations in Forest Grove, Oregon, leveraging the region’s pristine water resources from the Willamette Valley. The company is celebrated as America’s first successful craft saké producer, dedicated to blending time-honored Japanese brewing techniques with innovative approaches.
Oregon is globally renowned for its thriving craft beer and wine industries, and SakéOne’s consistent success at the U.S. National Sake Appraisal highlights the state’s broader excellence in the premium craft beverage sector. The brewery’s commitment to quality, from rice selection and polishing to the meticulous brewing process, has earned it national and international recognition. This latest news from the appraisal adds another significant chapter to SakéOne’s history and to Oregon’s reputation as a hub for artisanal production.
Looking Ahead
With this dual recognition, SakéOne not only celebrates its past achievements but also looks forward to continuing its mission of broadening the enjoyment of premium saké. The company’s dedication to quality and innovation, combined with its Oregon roots, positions it as a vital force in the expanding American saké market. SakéOne’s products, including the award-winning Momokawa line, are available nationwide, inviting consumers to experience the refined artistry of American-crafted saké. This ongoing success provides compelling news for craft beverage enthusiasts and solidifies SakéOne’s legacy.
