I rarely write about saké even though it’s in a similar category as beer, and I rarely drink it (which seems like something I should remedy). If I were in Portland on Wednesday, June 27, the perfect opportunity for both would present itself with Saké Fest PDX at the Oregon Convention Center (which happens to be the night before Homebrew Con starts — I wonder at the logistics of that.)

Saké Fest will offer over 180 different bottled sakés, which should be a terrific showcase for the drink for the novice and aficionado alike. An interesting angle to this fest is that the price is all inclusive—meaning, no tasting tickets and you are able to taste anything and as much as you like. (Though, you only have from 5:30 to 9pm.)

Here is the press release that went out:

Saké Fest PDX is the largest event of its kind  in the Northwest

Nowhere else can saké lovers try so many different bottles and unique food pairings in one evening

Portland is rumored to have the highest saké consumption of any city outside Japan so it makes sense that Saké Fest PDX returns each summer. This year’s event, happening the evening of Wednesday, June 27 will showcase over 180 different bottles of saké, paired with unique foods provided by 15 local chefs and food purveyors.

“Saké Fest PDX is an opportunity to taste saké from those who have been crafting saké for hundreds of years. Getting all of this expertise together for one event gives attendees a rare opportunity to learn from the most experienced and knowledgeable saké experts anywhere,” says Paul Englert of SakéOne. He adds, “the level of enthusiasm and sense of discovery at Saké Fest PDX is amazing. You can see the lightbulbs going off all night, as people learn just how unique and truly special saké is.”

SakéOne is the tasting glass sponsor each year and folks that purchase early admission tickets will receive a very special black glass that matches the g saké packaging, unlike any other offered in previous years. Regular admission attendees will receive a free glass with the Murai Family logo, another SakéOne brand.

Alongside tables of saké will be Japanese beer and cocktails made with local spirits. Jennifer Kadell of Bull Run Distillery explains why she loves Saké Fest PDX, “I am so appreciative of the fact this event could be held anywhere in the US but is here in our city, it really makes for an amazing night of experiencing some of the best saké producers and the most delicious food pairings.” This year, Bull Run Distillery plans to bring three new cocktails to the event. She continues, “I’m on a matcha kick right now and am infusing it into to our vodka then mixing it with a delicate high-noted saké– so perfect for the season. And the bolder and higher proof sakés make for a solid companion to our whiskeys.”

When: Wednesday, June 27, 2018, 5:30 – 9 PM

Where: Oregon Convention Center, 777 NE Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR 97232

Tickets: All attendees receive a free souvenir tasting glass courtesy of SakéOne. Early Admission: $78 per person in advance online only (less than 25 early admission tickets remain). Regular Admission: $58 per person in advance online and a limited number of tickets will be available for $68 at the door. Adults 21+ only with proper ID. No ticketing fees, ever.

Bulk Ticket Purchases: Groups of 8 or more receive an instant $13 discount on each ticket when purchased at the same time.

Tickets are available online here. If you plan to go, make sure to get them ahead of time and save $10.