For two decades, UENO GOURMET, accessible at www.japan-gourmet.com, has been at the forefront of the sake trade in Europe. The company’s journey began in 2005 with a vision: to make sake, Japanese craftsmanship, and traditions more renowned worldwide. What started with a selection of just 10 sake from two breweries (Rihaku and Okinonatsu) has grown into a market leader, significantly shaping Europe’s sake culture.
From humble beginnings to international success
The company’s founder, Yoshiko Ueno-Müller – inspired by her encounter with the sake god – has dedicated her life to spreading the art of sake brewing and the deeply rooted traditions of Japan. She is the only female Sake Samurai in Europe, a Master of Sake Tasting, Sommelière, Sake Expert Assessor NRIB, and a WSET Educator. With tireless pioneering spirit, she initially handled product deliveries herself using her personal car, serving just three restaurants and a few Japanese companies in 2006.
Today, in 2024, UENO GOURMET’s product range includes an impressive 130 sake from 34 different breweries, complemented by 5 shochu, wines, and seasonings – a total of 250 different items. With over 500 restaurants, 200 shops and retailers, and more than 6,000 private online customers, UENO GOURMET has become a cornerstone of the international sake trade.
Milestones of a remarkable journey
- 2010: Establishment of the Swiss office and the joining of Jörg Müller into the company.
- 2011: First appearance at ProWein – a pivotal moment as the first 20-foot container was imported. Until then, imports were exclusively via air freight.
- 2014: Expansion with the establishment of the UK office.
- 2020: Foundation of the Sake & Shochu Academy Europe to promote sake education and inspire passion for this craft.
Resilient through challenges
The company has not only celebrated successes but also weathered tough times. The 2011 natural disaster in Japan – an earthquake and tsunami – posed immense challenges for UENO GOURMET. Nevertheless, the company demonstrated resilience and continued its growth trajectory.
A glimpse into the future
UENO GOURMET’s passion is reflected in the diversity of its products and services. The most sought-after items include Junmai Daiginjo, followed by Junmai and sake liqueurs. Sparkling sake is also gaining popularity. With numerous online tastings held throughout the year, the company brings the world of sake to its customers, inspiring them to embark on their own sake journey.
The dedication and commitment of Yoshiko Ueno-Müller and Jörg Müller have made UENO GOURMET an indispensable partner for sake enthusiasts and retailers across Europe. The 20th anniversary is not only a reason to celebrate but also an opportunity to honor the achievements of the past two decades and lay the foundation for a promising future.