LA Sake Fest

Have you ever had a horrible run in with the “wine of Japan”, declaring you will never touch the stuff again? Most people don’t know that sake comes in many different types and flavors. So you might want to try the largest sake tasting of Southern California. Who knows? You might get a pleasant surprise as you find a sake you actually like.

The LA Sake Festival has been brought to Los Angeles by DrinkEatPlay, a company known for producing other tasty events, including the Dessert Decadence and the Cupcake Challenge. This year’s event promises to have a “Las Vegas vibe,” bringing people together casual and fun atmosphere.

In the festival, you can try over 100 types of this alcoholic Japanese drink.  Each booth has cards you can take home with you so you can remember the brands and types that you like. Classes will be offered so you can learn the basics of sake, which, like wine, has a complex fermentation production. Also like wine, there is a wide variety, and it can be served many different ways.  You can also learn about food and sake pairings.  The festival also offers tutorials for the inexperienced or for those who are just beginning to explore the wonders of the beverage.  Appetizers will be offered including noodles and sushi.  In keeping with the relaxed event theme, you can even have a go at karaoke.

Sake has been an important staple to the Japanese heritage for many years. It has been part of sacred ceremonies and times of war. However, more commonly now it is used as a drink for special events such as weddings and victories. So what will you be celebrating at this year’s LA Sake Festival?

Take a look at a recent article on another important part of Japanese culture — the gardens and their cherry blossoms.

Price: Tickets will be $50 each. You can purchase tickets online.

Date & Time: March 27, 2010 8-11pm

Location: Renaissance Hollywood Hotel, 1755 N. Highland Ave, Hollywood, CA

Photo courtesy of sxc.hu