Kanpai, or ‘cheers’ in Japanese, are proud to be the UK’s first sake brewery: crafting British-style sakes using traditional Japanese techniques, from London Bridge…

Brewed like a beer, enjoyed like a wine, at Kanpai all of their sake is purely fermented from rice. No added alcohol, sulphites or preservatives. Their sake is made lovingly by hand, using low interventionist brewing methods; allowing the natural characteristics of each ingredient to shine through.

Founded in 2016 by husband and wife, Tom & Luci Wilson, Kanpai is experimental at heart and ongoing exploration forms a huge part of their motivation to brew sake – this is why they launch one-off limited edition styles alongside their core range sakes. All Kanpai sake is made from start to finish on site in London Bridge. They even hand fill and label every bottle themselves to ensure the highest quality.

As the hosts of our recent Distillers Lectures, Tom told us more about the Kanpai ethos, their award-winning sakes and the journey from Peckham in early 2017 to a brilliant brewery and taproom in London Bridge.