Kobayashi Sake Selections is an esteemed extension of Niigata Sake Selections (NSS), founded by Ataru Kobayashi. NSS began as a curated group of breweries exclusively selected from the prestigious Niigata region, known for producing exceptional sake with the distinctive qualities of "Tanrei Karakuchi," sake which is recognized for being refined, light, and dry.
Ataru Kobayashi, hand-picked 18 sakes made by 11 producers for the first launch in 2005. The focus of the fist Niigata Sake Selections is on outstanding characteristics of Niigata sake known as “Tanrei Karakuchi” or very refined, light and dry. The Niigata Sake Selections is distributed in most of major markets in the US (25 states as of March 2022).
Ataru moved into the United States in 2002 with his wife Mayumi. His family has been making sake in Niigata since 1916. Before starting up Niigata Sake Selections in New York, he had spent 20 years in international chemical business with Shell Chemicals and International Specialty Products. He earned Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from Hokkaido University.
JSA Diploma, Advanced Sake Professional, SSI Sake + Shochu Advisor, Sake Scholar, WSET L3Carrie applies her expertise and passion for sake by working with 15 different US distributors in 25 states to introduce consumers to premium Japanese Sake through education, consultation, and administration of unique events.
Carrie’s desire to explore the vast world of alcoholic beverages has led her to successfully complete several certifications. In her passion for sake she is now one of a handful of members worldwide to hold the J.S.A. Diploma issued by Japan Sommelier Association and one of the first 100 individuals to earn the Certified Advanced Sake Professional (ASP) title, awarded by The Sake Education Council (SEC) in 2008. In 2013 Carrie became certified by the Sake Service Institute as a Sake Advisor; in 2018 passed the Wine and Spirit Education Trust Level 3 award in Sake with distinction. This year, 2021, she achieved certification from the Sake Scholar Course.
Mr. Shinichi Kanai started with Niigata Sake Selections in January 6th, 2023.
Mr. Kanai moved into the United States in 2006. He grew up surrounded by sakes from Niigata because his parents ran a liquor store (a sake shop) in Niigata before he was born. Before joining Niigata Sake Selections in New York, he spent 16 years in the Alcoholic Beverage industry with JFC International and Kikusui Sake USA. Mr. Kanai is an SSI Senior Sake Sommelier + Shochu Adviser.
Find out where we distribute to purchase our products
Arizona
Maverick Wine Co.
California
Hosoda Bros
Nevada
Vin Sauvage
New Mexico
Floating World
Oregon
MitchellWineGroup
Washington
Elliot Bay Wines
Conneticut, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island
Skurnik Wines
Washington D.C.,
Maryland & Virginia
Kysela Pere et Fils
Massachusets
Horizon Beverage
Minnesota
Maverick Wine Co.
Florida, North Carolina - Winebow
Georgia
Savannah Dist.
Kentucky
Skurnik Wines
Louisiana
Pioneer Wine & Spirits
Texas
Southern Glazers
Over time, we have broadened our horizons to embrace a meticulously curated selection of Japanese artisan producers from beyond Niigata Prefecture. Each of our partners is a small, family-owned business, passionately dedicated to crafting their products with unparalleled care and precision. We are committed to ensuring that every bottle we import narrates the rich tapestry of the people, places, and artistry that bring it to life.
