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Specializing in Japanese Beverages


Discover a curated selection of Japanese delights, from umeshu and sake to trending Yuzu Sake and Fruit Sake. Explore New Zealand wines crafted by Japanese winemakers, alongside an exceptional range of other fine wines.

BEST POPULAR FRUIT SAKE, YUZU, PLUM AND MORE

Some of you may have tried it at the Show, but here’s a drink that is currently enjoying immense popularity in Japan!

"Hiro provided our intimate gathering with a variety of wines that were perfectly paired to the food. His knowledge and passion was infectious. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience that I would repeat in heartbeat"

– Susan B, Auckland

TASTING PARTIES

Not only does Hiro curate unique, affordable and fine wines online, his popular tasting parties are a fun way for 4-12 friends to discover new wine. Two hours of sommelier-led tasting, hosted by Hiro at your place (Auckland only).

SOMM PICK LUXURY SAKE 

Enjoy sake as it is today, which has slowly evolved over 2,000 years.

"I love the service Somm Cellars provides me. Every month, I can discover new wines from different places like Italy, France, Japan, without having to go anywhere. It saves me from doing any research. I really enjoy reading the little descriptions that come with the bottles, explaining everything you need to know about each wine. It's an amazing service with incredible tastes!! I highly recommend it!"

– Thibault P, Auckland

SOMM BOTTLE SHOP

Hiro has selected 200+ wines & more with great character, great value for money and, of course, delicious. These are all wines that Hiro would like to share with family and friends. Subject to availability. 

HIRO'S HOT PICKS NOW

Wines that Hiro recommends that you should definitely drink at this very moment.

 Subject to avilability.

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SAKE SUBSCRIPTIONS

Discover a new dimension of premium sake with our unique 6-month fixed-term subscription. Every month, you'll receive 2 carefully selected bottles, handpicked by Sake Sommeliers, who will guide you on a journey into the heart of authentic Japanese sake culture. 
​Kanpai!!

"The sake subscription is great, the variation of sake and the notes to read along with while you drink are super informative. Thank you"

– Conor M, Hawke's Bay

UNIQUE JAPANESE WINES

With great pride, we present to you Japanese Wine. Our selection encompasses a wide range of offerings, from premium wines crafted using traditional grape varieties like Chardonnay and Merlot, embodying the essence of classic winemaking, to wines that embrace the unique character of Japan by utilizing native varietals such as Koshu, allowing you to experience a distinct sense of Japanese originality. Additionally, we offer natural wines made from the Vitis labrusca variety, providing a taste of Japan's latest movement in the world of wine.

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SOMMELIER HIRO

Hiro Kawahara is an award winning wine and sake sommelier well-known to Auckland diners, having worked for top restaurants; Sid at The French Cafe, The French Cafe, Cocoro as well as restaurants throughout Japan. 

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""Hiro is the perfect mix of sommelier and host. For a group of friends in a home setting, being hosted by Hiro and his wine knowledge made the evening into an incredibly special occasion"

– Donna M, Auckland

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HOSPO CONSULTING

Looking to enhance your restaurant or bar with tailored wine and sake selections? Our top-tier New Zealand sommelier will curate menus to match your concept and customers' tastes. Delight existing patrons, attract new ones, and foster repeat business with our expert guidance.

SOMM BOTTLE SHOP

Hiro has selected 200+ wines & more with great character, great value for money and, of course, delicious. These are all wines that Hiro would like to share with family and friends. Subject to availability. 

Wedding Blessing

WEDDING & EVENT WINE

Hiro has created wine lists for 100s of events and selects wines based on budget, taste and occasion. What to order, how much to order, and buying back wine that wasn't consumed*. Leave it to us.

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