Discover the Depth of Awamori

Awamori is a traditional distilled spirit from Okinawa, Japan, with a history of more than 600 years. It is made using rice and black koji and is closely connected to Okinawa’s history, culture and natural environment.

Sake is a brewed alcoholic beverage, while Awamori is a distilled spirit. Its production method, use of black koji, ingredients and Okinawan cultural background give Awamori its own distinct identity.

Awamori is one of Japan’s traditional distilled spirits, but it has its own production method, history and regional identity. Traditionally, it is made in Okinawa using rice and black koji.

Awamori can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with water, with soda, in cocktails or with food. The best serving style depends on the individual product, its alcohol strength and the occasion.

Kusu is aged Awamori. Ageing can create greater smoothness, depth and complexity. Okinawa has a long tradition of ageing Awamori over extended periods.

Yes. Awamori Trade Hub UK is designed to help UK restaurants, bars, retailers and other trade customers introduce Awamori without having to commit to large initial orders.

The service is primarily intended for trade customers, including restaurants, bars, hotels, specialist retailers, distributors and other drinks professionals.

Business customers may be asked to register their company details in order to access trade pricing and commercial purchasing arrangements.

This depends on the product and stock availability. Please let us know which products you are interested in and the purpose of the tasting.

Yes. One of the advantages of Awamori Trade Hub UK is that buyers can explore products from multiple Okinawan distilleries through a single point of contact.

Yes. Tell us about your concept, cuisine, customer profile, price range and intended use, and we can suggest suitable products.

Yes. We can recommend products for highballs, long drinks, cocktails, sipping and other applications.

Yes. We can suggest pairing ideas based on the style of Awamori and the food or menu you are working with.

Not necessarily. Availability depends on UK stock levels, production and future import arrangements.

Please contact SBL. Small-scale purchasing can be the first step towards a larger commercial discussion involving the distillery and relevant import or distribution partners.

Potentially, yes. If demand becomes regular or volumes increase, SBL can work with the distillery and relevant partners to develop an appropriate long-term supply structure.

No. Awamori Trade Hub UK is a trade gateway connecting UK buyers with Okinawan distilleries and appropriate import and distribution partners. Import and distribution arrangements may vary depending on the product and stage of the business relationship.

Yes. Where there is a genuine commercial opportunity, SBL can facilitate discussions with the relevant distillery.

Yes. This is one of the key functions of Awamori Trade Hub UK. Please tell us about your market coverage, customer base, sales channels and areas of interest.

Yes, depending on your requirements. The products shown on the website do not represent the full range of what SBL may be able to source or investigate. Tell us what you are looking for, including style, price range and intended use.

Depending on the project, yes. SBL can coordinate discussions involving product selection, market development, product development and collaboration with distilleries.

Yes. SBL develops and collects information on Awamori products, distilleries, distribution, trade activity and market development. Support may range from public information to individual research and business development services.

Yes. Professional and specialist distillery visits can be arranged depending on the purpose of the visit, schedule, participants and availability of the distilleries.

Yes. Programmes can be developed for importers, distributors, sommeliers, bartenders, educators and other drinks professionals.

Yes. Awamori is closely connected to Okinawan food, history, nature and culture. Programmes can therefore be designed to provide a broader understanding of Okinawa and the cultural background of Awamori, rather than focusing only on production facilities.

Sake Business Laboratory (SBL) is a Japan-based company that connects Japanese alcoholic beverages with overseas markets, drinks professionals and new business opportunities.

No. Awamori Trade Hub UK is focused on Awamori, but SBL also works with Japanese sake and other Japanese alcoholic beverages in areas including overseas market development, business introductions, research, producer engagement and professional programmes.

Yes. Awamori Trade Hub UK is intended to serve as a practical contact point for Awamori-related enquiries. If SBL can assist directly, we will do so. Where appropriate, we may also connect you with a suitable distillery, specialist or business partner.