When you think of premium sake, your mind might wander to the misty mountains of Niigata or the serene temples of Kyoto. But nestled in the heart of Arkansas, Origami Sake is redefining what it means to be a sake producer—blending time-honored Japanese techniques with the terroir, water, and rice of the American South.

This is not sake as a novelty. This is sake as art—meticulously brewed, deeply expressive, and proudly local.

A U.S. Sake With Deep Japanese Roots

Origami Sake is brewed in Hot Springs, Arkansas—a place known for its pristine natural water. I learned this, and when was first pitched this Arkansas Sake, I was more curious than anything. Why? Well, because I had only ever had Japanese Sake and heard of some producers in the USA doing it, but never had the opportunity to taste. The team at Origami uses locally grown Yamada Nishiki rice, the king of sake rice, and employs traditional Japanese brewing methods to create clean, complex, and balanced sake. The result? A line of American-made sakes that rival their Japanese counterparts in quality and depth. As a Sommelier I do get the opportunity to taste Sake often (more than most regular consumers) and I must say, these do rival many Japanese Sake’s I have tasted!

What sets Origami apart is their dedication to craft and culture. While rooted in Japanese tradition, they are also creating a sake identity that is uniquely American, driven by sustainability, regional agriculture, and innovation. The Name “Origami” comes from the paper-folding art from which it takes its name. Origami Sake is about precision, intention, and transformation. Each bottle is a folded expression—of rice, water, and time—unfolding in your glass to tell a story. Their lineup reflects that philosophy beautifully.

Meet the Origami Sake Lineup:

 A Thousand Cranes

Style: Junmai  (My personal favorite)
Profile: Delicate, fragrant, and elegant with notes of cantaloupe, pear, umami, and refreshing bursts of cucumber.

“I love a good Junmai and always have ever since I was a Sommelier at Hakkasan in New York and went through Sake Training. This fragrant and balanced expression is so versatile and I loved it! It’s my ideal sushi sake, but also with some really cool summer dishes, even possibly a ceviche!” 

Somm Pairing Ideas: Ideal with sushi, scallop crudo, or light shrimp ceviche.  Also lovely with a simple burrata and stone fruit salad.

White Lotus

Style: Nigori (Unfiltered)
Profile: Creamy and semi-sweet with flavors of coconut, banana cream pie, and a touch of vanilla. Texturally rich but well-balanced—not too sweet.

“Nigori has never really been my style, honestly… but I will always taste it. This one really does have those fun dessert notes without being overly sweet. I’d totally pair this one with something spicy and fried!”

Somm Pairing Ideas: Spicy Korean fried chicken, mango curry, or even tres leches cake. The creamy body stands up beautifully to bold, spicy, or rich dishes.

Angel Fish

Style: Junmai Daiginjo, Single Origin 
Profile: Bright and full of honeysuckle, pear, and figs. It’s light on the palate and clean on the finish and really subtle.

“I am always a level up and this Single Origin was so cool!!  It’s such a great aperitif and also easy to build into really unique cocktails.” 

Somm Pairing Ideas: Oysters, goat cheese crostini, or brunch dishes like lox bagels or lemon ricotta pancakes. Makes a fabulous welcome pour when a bubbly is added!

Zero

Style: Non-Alcoholic Sake-Inspired Beverage
Profile: Crafted to echo the elegance of Junmai-style sake, Zero is delicate and rice-driven, with a hint of citrus and floral lift. Smooth, lightly savory, and umami rich.

“I was so impressed by this zero style sake. It really captures the spirit of sake and can be worked into elevated n/a drinks too, to showcase its versatility and depth.” 

Somm Pairing Ideas: Excellent with vegetarian fare such as grilled miso eggplant, sesame tofu, or sushi rolls with avocado. A brilliant zero-proof option for sober-curious guests or inclusive wine dinners, which if you know my wine dinners, you know they always include an amazing N/A option!

Why Origami Sake Matters

In a world where “local” and “craft” often mean beer or spirits, Origami is elevating sake to its rightful place in the U.S. craft beverage conversation. They’re not imitating Japanese sake—they’re honoring it, while creating a product that is proudly American and undeniably world-class.

It’s sake for the curious palate. For the conscious consumer. And for those who understand that tradition doesn’t have to be imported—it can be grown, nurtured, and bottled right here.

Where to Find It:
Origami Sake is making waves across the U.S., and their lineup is available in select wine shops and via direct-to-consumer shipping (where legal). Keep an eye out—this is the kind of sake you’ll want to serve at your next tasting, food experience class, or curated in-home pairing.