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2 episodes with honkaku spirits
2 episodes with honkaku spirits
2 episodes with honkaku spirits
Send us a textCuriosity turned passion led Christopher Pellegrini from the quiet fields of Vermont to the spirited world of Japan's traditional drinks. Discover how a teenage experiment with home brewing ignited a lifelong journey that saw him become the youngest commercial brewer in the U.S. Christopher's story is filled with unexpected turns, including following his heart to Japan, where he stumbled upon shochu—a discovery that would forever change his life and career. His tales of resilience and determination in overcoming language barriers and rejection are as captivating as they are inspiring.Travel with Christopher as he recounts his adventures in Kagoshima, where the art of shochu-making captivated him. Immerse yourself in the culture and craftsmanship of this 600-year-old tradition through his vivid stories of forging connections with local distillers. Learn how persistence opened doors to a deeper appreciation for the fermentation artistry unique to Japan, and how it contrasts with Western techniques. From small-town Vermont to the bustling izakaya of Japan, Christopher's experiences offer insight into the transformative power of passion and resilience.Join us on a journey of entrepreneurship as we explore Christopher's mission to introduce shochu to America. Leaving behind a stable academic career, he embraced the challenges of cultural bridging, collaborating with creative bartenders to craft innovative cocktails. His story is not just about spirits but about cultivating curiosity and kindness, both in business and personal growth. Engage with us as we celebrate the adventurous spirit of those bringing shochu to the global stage, and learn how you, too, can connect with Christopher and his work through Honkaku Spirits and his insightful book, "The Shochu Handbook.https://honkakuspirits.com/Thanks for listening & being part of the Mindset Cafe Community.----------------------------------------------Connect With Devan:https://www.devangonzalez.com/connect----------------------------------------------Follow On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/devan.gonzalez/https://www.instagram.com/mindsetcafepodcastLet me know what topics or questions you want covered so we can help you achieve your goals faster.----------------------------------------------P.S. If you're not already a part of the The Mindset Cafe Community Page I would love to have you be a part of the community, and spread your amazing knowledge. The page is to connect and network with other like minded people networking and furthering each other on our journeys!https://www.facebook.com/groups/themindsetcafe/
In this episode of the Blu Alchemist Podcast, host Siquoyia Blue sits down with Christopher Pellegrini, a prominent expert in Japanese spirits and the founder of Honkaku Spirits, to delve into the fascinating life and legacy of Jokichi Takamine, often referred to as the "Japanese Rockefeller." The conversation highlights Takamine's groundbreaking contributions to the pharmaceutical and alcohol industries. Christopher sheds light on Takamine's innovative use of Koji fermentation in whiskey-making and his partnership with the Illinois Whiskey Trust, which faced significant challenges due to industry monopolies. Listeners will learn about Takamine's efforts to improve U.S.-Japan relations, notably through his anonymous donation of cherry trees to Washington, D.C., and his founding of the Nippon Club in New York to combat racial discrimination. The episode also explores Christopher's journey of cultural adaptation, his business ventures in Japan, and the introduction of Takamine Whiskey in the U.S., a product inspired by the very techniques Takamine pioneered. Siquoyia and Christopher discuss the intricacies of navigating cultural differences in business practices between the U.S. and Japan, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability. The episode concludes with an inspiring call to embrace opportunities and stay open to life's magical possibilities. Christopher Pellegrini Website: https://honkakuspirits.com/ Blu Alchemist Podcast Info: Podcast Website: https://www.blualchemistpodcast.com Siquoyia Blue Website: https://siquoyiablue.komi.io YouTube: @blualchemistpodcast Dating Assassins Card Game: https://www.datingassassins.com If you want to either be a guest on or find guests for your podcast, please sign up here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/siquoyia Donate via Cashapp: @KingSiquoyia or Venmo: @KingShay Thanks for listening! Subscribe, Share and Follow us!
Japan may once have seemed like a world away, but the most delicious elements of Japanese food and drink culture have become increasingly embedded in our American psyche. On this week's show, we celebrate the complexity and craftsmanship of Japanese drinking culture. We begin with Christopher Pellegrini, longtime homebrewer, Honkaku Spirits founder, and author of The Shochu Handbook. Originally from Vermont, Christopher now lives in Tokyo, where he has become a Japanese spirit evangelist. He introduces us to shochu, one of Japan's most popular distilled spirits, and one of the best-kept secrets everywhere else. Next, we hear Stephen Lyman, author of the James Beard-nominated book, The Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks. Stephen recounts the intriguing history of Takamine Koji whisky, and the remarkable 19th-century Japanese chemist whose work inspired it. Finally, in Japan, drinks are always accompanied by snacks, often in a bar and eatery called an izakaya. Restaurateur Jackie Blanchard drops by to explain how a Cajun girl raised on Bayou Lafourche ended up crossing the world to open Sukeban, an authentic izakaya, right here on Oak Street the Crescent City. For more of all things Louisiana Eats, be sure to visit us at PoppyTooker.com.
Japan may once have seemed like a world away, but the most delicious elements of Japanese food and drink culture have become increasingly embedded in our American psyche. On this week's show, we celebrate the complexity and craftsmanship of Japanese drinking culture. We begin with Christopher Pellegrini, longtime homebrewer, Honkaku Spirits founder, and author of The Shochu Handbook. Originally from Vermont, Christopher now lives in Tokyo, where he has become a Japanese spirit evangelist. He introduces us to shochu, one of Japan's most popular distilled spirits, and one of the best-kept secrets everywhere else. Next, we hear Stephen Lyman, author of the James Beard-nominated book, The Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks. Stephen recounts the intriguing history of Takamine Koji whisky, and the remarkable 19th-century Japanese chemist whose work inspired it. Finally, in Japan, drinks are always accompanied by snacks, often in a bar and eatery called an izakaya. Restaurateur Jackie Blanchard drops by to explain how a Cajun girl raised on Bayou Lafourche ended up crossing the world to open Sukeban, an authentic izakaya, right here on Oak Street the Crescent City. For more of all things Louisiana Eats, be sure to visit us at PoppyTooker.com.
This episode features Christopher Pellegrini of Honkaku Spirits. The word Honkaku means authentic in Japanese. Honkaku Spirits is an import company that brings traditional spirits from Japan that are much older than Japanese whiskey. We are focusing Shochu and Awamori in our discussion. Shochu is a spirit made from 53 approved ingredients. Like many, Christopher started out in craft brewing. Fast forward 22 years where he lives in Tokyo. He discovered the traditional spirit upon his arrival and has built relationships and is sharing Japan's wonderful secrets with the world. www.honkakushochu-awamori.jp - Instagram Highlights From our Discussion: Bar Convent Brooklyn Shochu Handbook Lobby Bar John Gauntner Dr. Takamine Cherry Trees Washington DC Astor Wines Death & Co. Zeppelin
Shochu is Japan's signature spirit, yet it's not well known outside the country. As our May/June 2024 cover feature reveals, that's starting to change, with a wider array of excellent shochu increasingly appearing in American bars. For this episode, we talk about all things shochu with Stephen Lyman and Christopher Pellegrini, the co-hosts of the Japan Distilled podcast, authors of books about Japanese spirits, and partners in Honkaku Spirits, which sources and bottles Japanese shochu and exports it to the U.S.Radio Imbibe is the audio home of Imbibe magazine. In each episode, we dive into liquid culture, exploring the people, places, and flavors of the drinkscape through conversations about cocktails, coffee, beer, spirits, and wine. Keep up with us at imbibemagazine.com, and on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and if you're not already a subscriber, we'd love to have you join us—click here to subscribe.
Japan may once have seemed like a world away, but the most delicious elements of Japanese food and drink culture have become increasingly embedded in our American psyche. On this week's show, we celebrate the complexity and craftsmanship of Japanese drinking culture. We begin with Christopher Pellegrini, longtime homebrewer, Honkaku Spirits founder, and author of The Shochu Handbook. Originally from Vermont, Christopher now lives in Tokyo, where he has become a Japanese spirit evangelist. He introduces us to shochu, one of Japan's most popular distilled spirits, and one of the best-kept secrets everywhere else. Next, we hear Stephen Lyman, author of the James Beard-nominated book, The Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks. Stephen recounts the intriguing history of Takamine koji whisky, and the remarkable 19th-century Japanese chemist whose work inspired it. Finally, in Japan, drinks are always accompanied by snacks, often in a bar and eatery called an izakaya. Restaurateur Jackie Blanchard drops by to explain how a Cajun girl raised on Bayou Lafourche ended up crossing the world to open Sukeban, an authentic izakaya, right here on Oak Street the Crescent City. For more of all things Louisiana Eats, be sure to visit us at PoppyTooker.com.
Japan may once have seemed like a world away, but the most delicious elements of Japanese food and drink culture have become increasingly embedded in our American psyche. On this week's show, we celebrate the complexity and craftsmanship of Japanese drinking culture. We begin with Christopher Pellegrini, longtime homebrewer, Honkaku Spirits founder, and author of The Shochu Handbook. Originally from Vermont, Christopher now lives in Tokyo, where he has become a Japanese spirit evangelist. He introduces us to shochu, one of Japan's most popular distilled spirits, and one of the best-kept secrets everywhere else. Next, we hear Stephen Lyman, author of the James Beard-nominated book, The Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks. Stephen recounts the intriguing history of Takamine koji whisky, and the remarkable 19th-century Japanese chemist whose work inspired it. Finally, in Japan, drinks are always accompanied by snacks, often in a bar and eatery called an izakaya. Restaurateur Jackie Blanchard drops by to explain how a Cajun girl raised on Bayou Lafourche ended up crossing the world to open Sukeban, an authentic izakaya, right here on Oak Street the Crescent City. For more of all things Louisiana Eats, be sure to visit us at PoppyTooker.com.
This week on Krewe of Japan Podcast... discover the life and legacy of Jokichi Takamine and his lasting impact on the city of New Orleans with regards to New Orleans-Japan relations. Is he the first ever Japanese to visit New Orleans? What makes this man such a treasure? Find out these answers AND MORE right here with special guest Stephen Lyman of the Japan Distilled Podcast.------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ More Info on Stephen Lyman, Japan Distilled Podcast, & More ------JSNO Event w/ Honkaku Spirits: Spirited Away: A Taste of Whiskey, Shochu, & More Event Registration PageJSNO Event w/ Honkaku Spirits: Spirited Away: A Taste of Whiskey, Shochu, & More Facebook Event PageJapan Distilled Podcast on TwitterJapan Distilled Podcast on InstagramJapan Distilled Podcast WebsiteHonkaku SpiritsJapan Distilled Podcast (Episode 52) - The Improbable Journey of Jokichi Takamine, Pt. 1Japan Distilled Podcast (Episode 52) - The Improbable Journey of Jokichi Takamine, Pt. 2Jokichi Takamine website
This week on Krewe of Japan... The Krewe talks with former JET Program participant Rachel of Travel Bug Art to discuss how she taps into her surroundings in Kyoto, Japan for limitless inspiration for her art. Rachel specializes in sketching and watercolor of Japan's historical and natural landscapes. As an artist and instructor, she shares tips that every aspiring artist (or anyone with interest in art) should hear, from approaches to art in Japan & the tools available to seeking inspiration in your surroundings (Japan or elsewhere)! ------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!Spirited Away Event Registration Link: Register Here------ More Info on Rachel (Travel Bug Art) ------Travel Bug Art WebpageTravel Bug Art InstagramSustainable Daisen Art for Salamanders Donation Page
The Cocktail Guru's chat with Christopher Pellegrini, founder of Honkaku Spirits, and learn how an American ended up founding a Japanese Spirits company. Shortly after Christopher moved to Japan, he became obsessed with shochu. So much so that he opened his own company in March of 2020. Chris explains to the Gurus how shochu takes on the flavor of the product which was brewed; ie sweet potato shochu tastes of sweet potatoes, barley tastes of barley etc. Additionally, they are relatively low ABV which makes them easy to drink. Click here to read more about Chris' spirits journey. Honkaku Spirits is devoted to bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American customers with a particular focus on koji-based spirits including Honkaku (meaning authentic) Shochu, Ryukyu Awamori from Okinawa, and koji whiskey, an as-yet undefined but widely enjoyed category of whiskey. Working exclusively with family-run suppliers, Honkaku Spirits endeavors to introduce the finest traditional spirits Japan has to offer. To see full show notes for this episode, please visit The Cocktail Guru Podcast THE COCKTAIL GURU PODCAST is produced by 1st Reel Entertainment and distributed by EatsDrinksTV, a service of the Center for Culinary Culture—Home of The Cocktail Collection, and is available wherever fine podcasts can be heard. The Center for Culinary Culture—Telling the Story of Food & Drink…One Taste at a Time. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thecocktailgurupodcast/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thecocktailgurupodcast/support
Beer, wine, whiskey, bourbon, vodka, rum, tequila, and gin represent most of the traditional alcohol consumed in this country, either straight or as a key ingredient in our favorite cocktail. However, there is a whole other spirits category that is Japan's greatest secret. It is not sake, but rather an incredibly diverse spirit named sochu. On this episode I speak with Christopher Pellegrini, who started out brewing American beer in Vermont and now lives in Japan where his mission is to pull back the curtain on this type of spirit - for the world's enjoyment! Christopher Pellegrini cut his teeth in alcohol as a teen brewer at Otter Creek Brewing Company in Middlebury, Vermont. He discovered shochu and awamori after moving to Tokyo while he was a full-time professor at Waseda University. In 2014, he published the first ever English language guide to shochu and awamori, The Shochu Handbook. He also contributed to The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails, published in 2021. Christopher launched Honkaku Spirits in March 2020 (great timing, huh?) with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning consumers worldwide. He also co-hosts two podcasts focused on the education of Japanese spirits: Japan Distilled and Sake on Air. Fluent in English and Japanese (conversational in Spanish and Korean), Christopher's contribution to increasing global knowledge of Japanese spirits continues to shape opinion on this burgeoning category.
Christopher Pellegrini joins Alex Burket on the Rise to the Challenge Podcast. Christopher made a huge move to Japan and wanted to experience a new adventure and shares his journey. He talks about creating Honkaku Spirits and the challenges being in the beverage/alcohol industry. We talk about writing a book and becoming an author. He talks about the challenges he faced and what he has learned from the experience. We talk about so much more on the Rise to the Challenge Podcast. Check out the links below to learn more about Christopher Pellegrini: - Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisPellegrini - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherpellegrini/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pellegrinichristopher - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherpellegrini/
Christopher Pellegrini is a shochu and awamori expert, author, podcast host, and die-hard Tokyo Swallows fan, incorporating his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge of Japanese spirits in all his professional endeavors. He launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey. After honing his skills as a brewer at Otter Creek Brewing Company in Middlebury, Vermont, Christopher became a full-time professor at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. Following the launch of Honkaku Spirits, he now lectures at the university on a part-time basis. In this episode:Christopher shares about his background and how become a shochu and awamori expertSharing the secrets about spirits of Japan to the worldLooking up to Carles Puyol his work ethics and how he was able to help his team focus on the field Being comfortable with change and how to adapt to it Expectations of employees towards their leaders Key Takeaways:Take a break from your work and problems and come back with fresh eyes to tackle it The way we communicate has changed and we have to adapt to it Leaders need to learn to interpret data in ways they have not been able to before Employees expectation of what a meaningful job is has changed Tweetable Quote: “A leader needs to be comfortable with interpreting data in a way that they might not have when they were either leading a function, or leading a smaller team. They also need to be much more comfortable with challenging assumptions, ” - Christopher Pellegrini “The business culture is so wickedly different and risk taking, it's two sides. It's not even the same coin. It's two sides of two separate coins.”- Christopher Pellegrini Connect with Christopher:Website: https://honkakuspirits.com/ Social Media:LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Connect with Denis:Email: denis@leadingchangepartners.comWebsite: http://www.leadingchangepartners.com/ Leadership Is Changing Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadershipIsChanging/Leadership is Changing LinkedIn Page:https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadership-is-changing-podcast/
On this episode of The Author Factor Podcast I am having a conversation with author and founder of Honkaku Spirits, Christopher Pelligrini.Christopher is on a mission to bring intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey.In addition to being a contributor to the newly released Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, he recently wrote the first non-Japanese book about shochu and awamori, The Shochu Handbook.Learn more about Chris by visiting HonkakuSpirits.com.
Sales and Cigars” The History of Japanese Whiskey” with Christopher Pellegrini Episode 73 This week Walter learns about Japanese whiskey and Japanese spirits with Christopher Pellegrini of Honkaku Spirits. Christopher tells a remarkable story about how this whiskey is created, why it is so different and how it almost became the way all whiskeys were produced here in the United States. This is a compelling story and a lot of fun to learn the history of Japanese whiskey and about this brand of Japanese whiskey the uniqueness of the process is wildly different than anything else that is produced in this country. Go grab a cocktail grab a cigar and strap in for another great episode of sales and cigars. Connect with Christopher Pellegrini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherpellegrini https://www.linkedin.com/company/honkaku-spirits/ https://honkakuspirits.com/ https://www.instagram.com/honkakuspirits/?hl=en Connect with Walter Crosby: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walterlcrosby/ https://calendly.com/walter-helix/15-minute-virtual-cup-of-coffee https://helixsalesdevelopment.com/ https://helixsalesdevelopment.com/podcast/ walter@HelixSalesDevelopment.com Episode 73 This week Walter learns about Japanese whiskey and Japanese spirits with Christopher Pellegrini of Honkaku Spirits. Christopher tells a remarkable story about how this whiskey is created, why it is so different and how it almost became the way all whiskeys were produced here in the United States. This is a compelling story and a lot of fun to learn the history of Japanese whiskey and about this brand of Japanese whiskey the uniqueness of the process is wildly different than anything else that is produced in this country. Go grab a cocktail grab a cigar and strap in for another great episode of sales and cigars. Connect with Christopher Pellegrini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherpellegrini https://www.linkedin.com/company/honkaku-spirits/ https://honkakuspirits.com/ https://www.instagram.com/honkakuspirits/?hl=en Connect with Walter Crosby: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walterlcrosby/ https://calendly.com/walter-helix/15-minute-virtual-cup-of-coffee https://helixsalesdevelopment.com/ https://helixsalesdevelopment.com/podcast/ walter@HelixSalesDevelopment.com
Have you ever wondered how expats become….well, expats?! There are thousands (if not millions) of expats worldwide, but what did their journey look like, and how are they adapting to living in a different culture?! Because, let's face it, living outside of your home country can be a massive challenge, but it can also lead to massive rewards. Like, say, starting an incredible spirits company?!? Yep! My guest today is on the show to share his experience of living in a totally different world and how (and why) he started a business that celebrates the local indigenous beverage culture!! Christopher Pellegrini is a Vermont transplant who has been living in Tokyo, Japan, longer than he's lived in the US –and LOVING it! He's also the founder of Honkaku Spirits, published author, and host of the super niche (but super awesome) The Japan Distilled Podcast. I mean, what doesn't he do, right? Of all the endeavors that he's done, Chris is most keen on sharing his passion for indigenous spirits (particularly Japanese Whiskey) with the world. Did I mention that he's sharing his lessons learned, insights, and business tips with us today, too?! This conversation is so insightful and honestly, it took a direction I was not expecting, but SO happy it did, and I can't wait for you to hear it! Let's go!!! Leave a 5 star review on iTunes! Times to Check Out: [1:00] What can happen when you let life find its own course [5:49] The drinking culture in Japan vs United States [9:55] What makes Japanese Whiskey different [15:50] How he got his business start in Japan [22:41] Emerging into the beverage business culture of Japan [27:57] The biggest gift of living in a new world [30:28] How to communicate the value of your product [34:10] What the Japan Distilled podcast is all about [36:19] Lesson learned from business and living abroad Connect with Christopher: Website: https://honkakuspirits.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisPellegrini Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherpellegrini/ Podcast:https://japandistilled.com/ Takamine Koji Whiskey 8 Year: https://honkakuspirits.com/product/takamine-8-year-whiskey/ Join this free training on how to easily pivot your life and business: https://www.kelseymarieknutson.com/pivot Send us podcast ideas at info@kelseymarieknutson.com Links: Show notes: https://www.kelseymarieknutson.com/podcast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseymarieknutson/ Hangout on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelseymarieknutson Join the online community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kelseymarieknutson FREE Workshop to take the guess work out of “what's next?” https://www.kelseymarieknutson.com/pivot Work with Kelsey: Ready for your next big pivot? Maybe it's launching that new side hustle or growing your existing business, whatever the chapter Kelsey's here to help you bridge the gap between new idea and achieving your goals! VIP Coaching: https://www.kelseymarieknutson.com/vipcoaching Grow Academy: https://www.kelseymarieknutson.com/growacademy Start Smart: https://kelseymarieknutson.mykajabi.com/offers/aoAuAe7M/checkout
The Don't Quit Podcast looks at how professionals work and how you can learn from them. This week's guest is Christopher Pellegrini, founder of Honkaku Spirits and author of The Shochu Handbook in educating artisanal Japanese spirits. Website: https://honkakuspirits.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paul.halme/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherpellegrini/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisPellegrini Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherpellegrini/ — Email the Host, Nick Mann, at Nick@TDQPodcast.com Check out the official The Don't Quit Podcast: TDQPodcast.com Follow the show on Instagram: @TDQPodcast Follow the host on Twitter @MannDesigner If you enjoyed this episode, please give a review on Apple Podcasts. Thank you for listening!
Christopher Pellegrini is a shochu and awamori expert, author, host, and die-hard Tokyo Swallows fan, incorporating his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge of Japanese spirits in all his professional endeavors. He launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/shelor-select/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
This episode covers Christopher Pellegrini, who became captivated with the idea of brewing from a simple school assignment researching the prohibition era. That captivation turned into brewing at home, working for Otter Creek in Vermont, becoming the youngest commercial brewer in the United States, and eventually becoming a shochu and awamori expert in Japan. Since those humble beginnings, Christopher launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing Japanese spirits to American consumers. He's a contributor to the award-winning “Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails,” and the author of the first non-Japanese book about shochu and awamori: “The Shochu Handbook.” Christopher also co-hosts two podcasts focused on the education of Japanese spirits: Japan Distilled and Sake on Air. The conversation ranges from Christopher's origin story into the craft beer world, to his transition into craft spirits, to different ways to enjoy shochu, and even some cultural differences between The United States and Japan in regards to doing business. Christopher truly lives up to the title of expert for shochu and awamori, so be sure to check out the resources below in order to obtain more information, and to stay updated on all the exciting things Christopher has in the works. Honkaku Spirits Website: https://honkakuspirits.com/ Christopher on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pellegrinichristopher/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherpellegrini/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisPellegrini Japan Distilled Podcast: https://japandistilled.com/ Sake on Air Podcast: https://sakeonair.com/ Smith and the Loyalist Restaurants: https://www.smythandtheloyalist.com/ The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails: https://smile.amazon.com/Oxford-Companion-Spirits-Cocktails/dp/0199311137/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=oxford+companion+to+spirits+and+cocktails&qid=1654975069&sprefix=oxford%27s+companion+to+spir%2Caps%2C219&sr=8-1 Koji Alchemy: https://smile.amazon.com/Koji-Alchemy-Rediscovering-Mold-Based-Fermentation/dp/160358868X/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=koji+alchemy&qid=1654975152&sprefix=koji+alch%2Caps%2C109&sr=8-1 ---- Follow Juxtaposed Journeys on Social Media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JuxtaposedJourneys Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuxJourneysPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juxtaposedjourneys/ ---- Interested in being featured in a future episode? Fill out the short questionnaire below, and if you're a good fit, you'll be contacted for an interview. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUZw2voAG3CsUJdaby5npsbjiyS9ZE7D4MTJ5tGlPDYMFfoQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
I talk with Christopher Pelligrini, owner of Honkaku Spirits. This is one of my favorite interviews so far, and had to end just because of time restraints. I'll drop a big bio of him here for you: Christopher Pellegrini is a shochu and awamori expert, author, host, and die-hard Tokyo Swallows fan, incorporating his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge of Japanese spirits in all his professional endeavors. He launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey. Hailing from Bristol, Vermont, Christopher received his B.A. in Spanish from Wittenberg University and his M.A. in language education from University College London. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Bioresource Economics from Kagoshima National University. After honing his skills as a brewer at Otter Creek Brewing Company in Middlebury, Vermont, Christopher became a full-time professor at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. Following the launch of Honkaku Spirits, he now teaches at the university on a part-time basis. Respected throughout the industry, Christopher is a judge of the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition as well as Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. In addition to being a contributor to the award-winning “Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails,” his extensive understanding of shochu inspired him to write the first non-Japanese book about shochu and awamori, “The Shochu Handbook.” He also co-hosts two podcasts focused on the education of Japanese spirits: Japan Distilled and Sake on Air. Fluent in English and Japanese, Christopher's contribution to increasing global knowledge of Japanese spirits continues to shape opinion on the burgeoning category. Christopher was the first person to be certified by the Sake Service Institute as a Shochu Kikisakeshi (specialist) in Japan and as a Shochu Advisor by the Sake School of America; he is one of a select few that hold both accreditations. Christopher also speaks conversational Spanish and Korean. Passionate about giving back, Christopher proudly supports the Minga Foundation, the Providence Saint Joseph Foundation, and the Ray Pellegrini ‘Reach for the Stars' Scholarship. To find out more about Honkaku Spirits, go to https://honkakuspirits.com/ and experience something authentic.
Christopher Pellegrini is a shochu and awamori expert, author, host, and die-hard Tokyo Swallows fan, incorporating his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge of Japanese spirits in all his professional endeavors. He launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey. Hailing from Bristol, Vermont, Christopher received his B.A. in Spanish from Wittenberg University and his M.A. in language education from University College London. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Bioresource Economics from Kagoshima National University. https://honkakuspirits.com/ https://youtu.be/7nojLJLYghs --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/richard-lamonica/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/richard-lamonica/support
Chris Pellegrini is the founder of Honkaku Spirits, an alcohol related company out of Fukuoka, Japan specializing in "Koji Whiskey". He got his start brewing beer in his closet as a kid in Vermont, and its been an alcohol fueled adventure ever since! From the intricacies of Japanese whiskey, to traditional shochu, awamori and sake, we take you listeners on a global whirlwind adventure. Take your first steps down the path of spirits snobbery right here with us on Beautiful Bastards!
From the time he secretly brewed beer in his bathtub when he was in high school, Christopher Pellegrini has been fascinated by brewed and distilled spirits. The founder of Honkaku Spirits, he is on a mission to bring Shochu and Awamori to the world. Listen in as he tells us about living in Japan, how he became a distiller and about his work as an author, podcast co-host and professor at Waseda University in Tokyo.
Christopher's Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherpellegrini/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisPellegriniFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pellegrinichristopher/LinkeIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherpellegrini/Honkaku Spirits Websitehttps://honkakuspirits.com/https://pursuitist.com/rich-coffee-cocktails-for-a-happy-hour-java-jolt/Mugi Hokka, the shochu in question, is one of the products that our company brings into the US.Christopher's bio: Christopher Pellegrini is a shochu and awamori expert, author, host, and die-hard Tokyo Swallows fan, incorporating his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge of Japanese spirits in all his professional endeavors. He launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey.Hailing from Bristol, Vermont, Christopher received his B.A. in Spanish from Wittenberg University and his M.A. in TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) from University College London. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Bioresource Economics from Kagoshima National University. After honing his skills as a brewer at Otter Creek Brewing Company in Middlebury, Vermont, Christopher became a full-time professor at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. Following the launch of Honkaku Spirits, he now teaches at the university on a part-time basis. Respected throughout the industry, Christopher is a judge of the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition as well as Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. In addition to being a contributor to the newly released “Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails,” his extensive understanding of shochu inspired him to write the first non-Japanese book about shochu and awamori, “The Shochu Handbook.” He also co-hosts two podcasts focused on the education of Japanese spirits: Japan Distilled and Sake on Air. Fluent in English and Japanese, Christopher's contribution to increasing global knowledge of Japanese spirits continues to shape opinion on the burgeoning category.Christopher was the first person to be certified by the Sake Service Institute as a Shochu Kikisakeshi (specialist) in Japan and as a Shochu Advisor by the Sake School of America; he is one of a select few that hold both accreditations. Christopher also speaks conversational Spanish and Korean.Passionate about giving back, Christopher proudly supports the Minga Foundation, the Providence Saint Joseph Foundation, and the Ray Pellegrini ‘Reach for the Stars' Scholarship.
https://honkakuspirits.com/https://japandistilled.com/PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/minddogtvSponsors:KOA Coffee https://koacoffee.com/?sscid=21k6_79g17TRUE FIRE GUITAR MASTERY: http://prf.hn/click/camref:1101lkzyk/pubref:minddogOddball https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1763361&u=1659788&m=109984&urllink=&afftrack=
Christopher Pellegriniis a shochu and awamori expert, author, host, and die-hard Tokyo Swallows fan, incorporating his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge of Japanese spirits in all his professional endeavors. He launched Honkaku Spirits in March of 2020 with the mission of bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American consumers, especially koji-based spirits including shochu, awamori, and koji whiskey. Hailing from Bristol, Vermont, Christopher received his B.A. in Spanish from Wittenberg University and his M.A. in language education from University College London. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Bioresource Economics from Kagoshima National University. After honing his skills as a brewer at Otter Creek Brewing Company in Middlebury, Vermont, Christopher became a full-time professor at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. Following the launch of Honkaku Spirits, he now teaches at the university on a part-time basis. Respected throughout the industry, Christopher is a judge of the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition as well as Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. In addition to being a contributor to the award-winning “Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails,” his extensive understanding of shochu inspired him to write the first non-Japanese book about shochu and awamori, “The Shochu Handbook.” He also co-hosts two podcasts focused on the education of Japanese spirits: Japan Distilled and Sake on Air. Fluent in English and Japanese, Christopher's contribution to increasing global knowledge of Japanese spirits continues to shape opinion on the burgeoning category.https://honkakuspirits.com/ This is my import company's website which is designed to be a gateway to greater understanding of Japanese spirits in general and koji-based spirits in particular.Twitter chrispellegrini Instagramchristopher pellegrini
Our latest guests on The Craft Spirits Podcast are Christopher Pellegrini and Stephen Lyman of Honkaku Spirits, which is devoted to bringing intensely artisanal Japanese spirits to discerning American customers with a particular focus on koji-based spirits. Pellegrini is Honkaku's founder, Lyman is their ambassador, and both of them are writers. Pellegrini published the first ever English language guide to shochu and awamori, "The Shochu Handbook." He also contributed to "The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails." Lyman is the author of the James Beard Award-nominated "The Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks." Recently, they joined editor in chief Jeff Cioletti at the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C., to talk about their love of shochu, the origins of Honkaku and more.
Honkaku Spirits: Founded in 2020 in the midst of a global public health crisis, Honkaku Spirits is the first portfolio devoted exclusively to koji-fermented spirits including honkaku (authentic) shochu, Ryukyu Awamori from Okinawa, and koji whiskey from Japan. Working exclusively with family-run distilleries, Honkaku Spirits is devoted to introducing the best traditional Japanese spirits to America. The company is led by Christopher Pellegrini, author of The Shochu Handbook, the first English language book about Japan's indigenous spirits, and supported by ambassador Stephen Lyman, author of the James Beard Award nominated Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks. Bruce Gearhart – formerly president of Bacchus Importers, one of the premier fine wine and craft spirits distributors based in the mid-Atlantic – is the Managing Director. Spirits of Whisk(e)y podcast is produced by 1st Reel Entertainment and distributed by EatsDrinksTV, a service of the Center for Culinary Culture—Home of The Cocktail Collection, and is available wherever fine podcasts can be heard. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/barrel-room-chronicles/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/barrel-room-chronicles/support
After 1300 tastings, it's so rare to come across something truly new and exciting at the same time. Enter Takamine 8-year-old whiskey, a koji-fermented and double distilled spirit from Fukuoka in southern Japan. Named after Jokichi Takamine, one of the most influential and under-known men in both Japanese and American history, this whiskey with an "e" is unlike anything I've had before and something I urge you to try. Christopher Pellegrini, founder, and Stephen Lyman, ambassador, for Honkaku Spirits join me to talk about Takamine, give me an introduction to shochu, awamori, and other koji-fermented products. Trust me - like it or not, this will be something you'll remember trying for a long time. Also, take a listen to Japan Distilled (linked below), Christopher and Stephen's podcast on all things Japanese alcohol related. It's informative, fun, and the episodes are short enough to binge. I enjoyed them thoroughly and will probably listen again before the new season comes out! ________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community, please do! You can now support the site and podcast for as little as $1 a month, plus new and improved benefits for the $5 a month tier including exclusive content, free glassware after 6 months, and more benefits as the group grows such as barrel picks, live events, and more. If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to the newsletter on the website. Thank you for listening and for supporting, and please enjoy my chat with Christopher Pellegrini and Stephen Lyman of Honkaku Spirits. Honkaku Spirits Website Honkaku Spirits Facebook Honkaku Spirits Instagram Honkaku Spirits Twitter Japan Distilled Podcast
On the first Industry Night of 2022 Nycci talks the absolute do's of dining right now with Kathy Hollinger of the Restaurant Association of Metro Washington. And, all the way from Japan - seriously - Honkaku Spirits founder Christopher Pellegrini and Ambassador of Honkaku Spirits, Stephen Lyman provide a Japanese Distillery education. Think you know koji-fermented shochu, awamori and whiskey? Class is in session.
The texture of a proper Japanese drinking moment can be a beautiful balance of experiences. Aroma and flavor are a given, but temperature, feel, sight, and sound all play equally important roles in elevating the sip above a mere drink. This is life in high fidelity. Sip slowly. Sip Honkaku. Founder Christopher Pellegrini joins Justin to discuss this growing brand.
Hosted by David and Nycci Nellis. On today's show: • Bruce Gearhart, U.S. managing director, Honkaku Spirits, and Jake Tennenbaum, the firm's U.S. account specialist, We'll be talking and tasting Japanese distilled spirits, especially shochu, which is different from and way stronger than sake. Listen and learn; • The Hill Center has put together a community cookbook. It celebrates the center's 10th anniversary and includes recipes from chefs with Michelin stars (Aaron Silverman, Gerard Pangaud) and James Beard Award nominees (Amy Brandwein, Erik Bruner-Yang), all of whom have taught cooking classes at the Hill Center Sales benefit the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital. Board member Bonnie Wolf joins us to discuss; • Osman Cuadros, the new general manager at The Capital One Watermark Hotel Tysons will be on with a deep dive into this 300-suite business hotel; • Dan Grim, cofounder of Good Stuff Beverages, joins us. Good Stuff Beverages is an all-natural, strain-specific cannabis beverage that actually tastes good! Each bottle contains 100 mg of THC to be sipped, shot, or used in tasty mocktail recipes.
Hosted by David and Nycci Nellis. On today's show: • Bruce Gearhart, U.S. managing director, Honkaku Spirits, and Jake Tennenbaum, the firm's U.S. account specialist, We'll be talking and tasting Japanese distilled spirits, especially shochu, which is different from and way stronger than sake. Listen and learn; • The Hill Center has put together a community cookbook. It celebrates the center's 10th anniversary and includes recipes from chefs with Michelin stars (Aaron Silverman, Gerard Pangaud) and James Beard Award nominees (Amy Brandwein, Erik Bruner-Yang), all of whom have taught cooking classes at the Hill Center Sales benefit the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital. Board member Bonnie Wolf joins us to discuss; • Osman Cuadros, the new general manager at The Capital One Watermark Hotel Tysons will be on with a deep dive into this 300-suite business hotel; • Dan Grim, cofounder of Good Stuff Beverages, joins us. Good Stuff Beverages is an all-natural, strain-specific cannabis beverage that actually tastes good! Each bottle contains 100 mg of THC to be sipped, shot, or used in tasty mocktail recipes.
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