Michael Tremblay is a Sake Samurai and he's telling us all about it! episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 13, 2026 · 37 MIN

Michael Tremblay is a Sake Samurai and he's telling us all about it!

from Beyond the Pour Podcast by California Tastings · host Nilu Afshar

In this episode 8, I am thrilled to welcome Michael Tremblay, the Beverage Director at Ki Modern Japanese + Bar in Toronto, where he oversees Canada’s largest sake program. A globally recognized Sake Samurai—one of only about 100 worldwide—Michael was honored by the Japan Sake Brewers Association for his deep passion and expertise in sake, as well as his dedication to spreading Japanese culture. He’s a certified WSET sake instructor, a senior judge at the International Wine Challenge, and co-author of the James Beard Award-winning book Exploring the World of Japanese Craft Sake. Beyond his mastery of sake, Michael is also an accomplished composer and pianist, bringing a creative flair to both music and the art of beverage. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit californiatastings.substack.com

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Michael Tremblay is a Sake Samurai and he's telling us all about it!

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This episode was published on January 13, 2026.

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In this episode 8, I am thrilled to welcome Michael Tremblay, the Beverage Director at Ki Modern Japanese + Bar in Toronto, where he oversees Canada’s largest sake program. A globally recognized Sake Samurai—one of only about 100 worldwide—Michael...

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