Blog

Home Base Spirits (Berkeley)
June 27, 2023
Originally from Oakland, twin sisters Sam (above left) and Ali Blatteis were living across the country from...
How to Make a Japanese Whisky Highball with Kevin Diedrich
July 25, 2017
Kayoko and I met Kevin Diedrich back in 2011 when we threw the Gift of Food...
The Umami Reader: Limited Edition Whisky Pocky is Coming Soon!
October 7, 2016
Pocky to eat with whisky, why you're probably not eating real wasabi, the weird history of Ronald McDonald, and more on The Umami Reader.
Japanify: Shochu Root Beer Float
July 18, 2016
A step-by-step recipe on making a root beer float with Kannoko Mugi Shochu, a barrel aged barley shochu that's akin to whisky.
Diamonds + Gold: A New Take on an Old Fashioned
July 15, 2016
Our newest glasses from Toyo-Sasaki up the bling times two – diamond cut glass and gold edging along the lip – but are still tasteful and elegant.
Sneak Peek: The Pot Still at Hitachino Brewery
January 26, 2016
The makers of beloved Japanese Hitachino craft beer (Kiuchi Brewery) will distill whisky next!
Togarashi Ginger Highball at Jicca (Tokyo)
March 5, 2015
As you know by now, Tori-chan is a dear friend of ours who opened Jicca,...
Event Recap: The Fragrance of Whisky
September 1, 2014
I have allowed an unsuitable amount of time to pass before writing about our Fragrance...
Upcoming Event: Drink More Whiskey Book Party + Tasting
June 30, 2014
For all of ya'll who have been suggested we hold more, ehem, "alcohol education courses,"...
Upcoming Event: The Fragrance of Whisky (For Ladies Only!)
May 12, 2014
This women-only event is a collaboration with the Women & Whiskies program and is sponsored...
Postcard from San Francisco: Stairway to Whisky
May 6, 2013
Went to Hard Water the other night, Charles Phan's newest eatery located along the scenic...
Happy Hour: The Improved Japanese Cocktail
March 15, 2013
In honor of Umami Mart’s sixth anniversary/ lease-signing and the Japan Week celebration in NYC,...