Meet the Team: Erika Haigh 🎙️🍶

In this episode of The Izakaya Happy Hour podcast, we’re delighted to introduce Erika Haigh, a key figure in the world of sake education and Japanese drinking culture. Born and raised in Japan, Erika’s love for sake has taken her across the globe, and she now calls London home. As an international kikisake-shi sommelier (SSI), Erika is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and complexity of Japanese sake to the world.

Erika is the founder of Mai, a boutique Japanese fine sake merchant, and co-owner of Moto, the UK’s first independent Japanese sake bar, shop, and eatery. She holds WSET Level 3 qualifications in both wine and sake, and serves as a sake judge in the prestigious International Wine Challenge. In addition to her roles in the UK, Erika is a committee member for the British Sake Association and advises on sake projects for companies in both Japan and the UK.

Tune in to hear Erika’s incredible journey, the challenges she’s faced, and how she’s contributing to the growth of sake culture in the UK and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned sake fan or just curious about the world of Japanese drinks, Erika’s insights are a must-listen!

Bottles Mentioned:

Summer Eikun 🍶 - https://www.maisake.com/shop/p/summer-eikun

Erika’s Businesses:

Mai Sake - https://www.maisake.com/

Moto - https://motoldn.com/

Social Media

Instagram: @_erikahaigh