Zenkuro Sake: Bringing Japanese Craft Culture to New Zealand
It all started when a group of friends with a shared passion for Japanese culture set out to bring a piece of Japan to New Zealand by producing traditional sake. Their venture, Zenkuro Sake, is a testament to their dedication to authenticity while adapting to a new market. We had the pleasure of speaking to co-founder David Joll about their journey.
The Birth of Zenkuro Sake
The founders of Zenkuro, all with deep ties to Japan, observed the growing popularity of Japanese food and culture in their home country, and the idea for a local sake brewery was born.
“We started educating the market from scratch,” says David “Many people thought sake was a spirit like tequila, so we had to explain that it’s more like wine, meant to be enjoyed with food.”
Gaining acceptance, particularly among Japanese restaurants in New Zealand, was challenging. “There was scepticism about sake brewed outside Japan,” David recalls. “But we’ve worked hard to maintain traditional methods, and now our sake is recognised for its quality.”
The Role of Labels and Print in Creating a Premium Brand
A key aspect of Zenkuro's success is its distinctive branding. The name "Zenkuro," which translates to "all black," is a nod to New Zealand's iconic All Blacks rugby team and is reflected in the brand's colour scheme - black, white, and red. These colours symbolize a blend of New Zealand and Japanese cultures, creating a visual identity that is both striking and meaningful.
“We wanted our labels to reflect the premium nature of our sake,” says David. “Print Central helped us create labels that look and feel special. Their attention to detail was crucial in positioning our product as high-end.” In fact, Zenkuro’s premium label design won a gold award in 2021 the Pride and Print Awards.
Educating the Market and Expanding Sake’s Appeal
For many in New Zealand, sake is still a mystery, At their cellar door, they offer tastings and sake education sessions, helping customers understand the different types of sake, how they’re made, and how to best enjoy them.
Sake’s versatility in food pairing is another aspect that Zenkuro is keen to highlight. “Sake goes with a wide range of foods, not just Japanese cuisine,” the team notes. “It pairs beautifully with Italian food, French dishes, and even New Zealand’s own culinary creations. The umami-rich nature of sake enhances flavours, making it an excellent complement to any meal.”
Where to Find Zenkuro Sake
Whether you’re a sake novice or a seasoned connoisseur, a visit to the Zenkuro cellar door is a must. Experience their craft first-hand at 19 Repco Boulevard, Queenstown, open weekdays from 10 am to 4 pm.
Zenkuro Sake is also available at select restaurants, bars, and liquor stores throughout New Zealand and across the globe. To find a location near you, visit their store locator.
With a commitment to quality, innovation, and education, Zenkuro leaves a lasting impression on all who experience their sake—one beautifully crafted bottle at a time.
