Nami, the Mexican Sake Awarded at the Tokyo Sake Challenge 2026

Nami, a sake produced in Mexico, has achieved significant international recognition, earning multiple accolades at the prestigious Tokyo Sake Challenge 2026. The Mexican sake secured the Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Best Design awards across various categories, competing against sakes with over a century of tradition.

The Tokyo Sake Challenge, supported by the Sake Sommelier Association, is one of Japan's foremost competitions for this distilled beverage. The 2026 edition, themed "Re-Discovering Sake," brought together global labels to celebrate the diversity and evolution of contemporary sake. Nami's Junmai Ginjo was awarded the highest honor, Platinum Sake. Additionally, Nami Junmai Daiginjo received Gold Sake and the Best Design award for its elegant visual presentation and packaging, while Nami Junmai Sake was honored with Silver Sake.

An international panel of certified sommeliers evaluated each entry based on aroma, flavor, quality, presentation, design, and packaging. Ernesto Reyes, Toji and Master Sakero at Nami, expressed the significance of this achievement, stating, "This recognition represents years of work, learning, and passion for creating a sake that honors Japanese tradition while expressing our own vision and origin." He added, "We are excited to see that a Mexican project can connect with experts and audiences on one of the most important stages for the industry."

Established in Sinaloa in 2016, Nami, meaning "wave" in Japanese, holds the distinction of being the first sake produced in Mexico. The brand employs the traditional Japanese sokujo method for premium sake production. Its portfolio includes four distinct profiles: Junmai (55% polish), Junmai Ginjo (50% polish), Junmai Daiginjo (40% polish), and Nigori (60% polish). Nami's success at the Tokyo Sake Challenge marks a pivotal moment for the burgeoning Mexican sake industry.