About Us
With over 20 years experience in the sake industry Sake Discoveries builds relationships with our clients with new ideas from concept to execution. We believe our team has the skills and knowledge to offer education, training and brand awareness to provide your needs
Our Story
Sake Discoveries was founded by Chizuko Niikawa-Helton, who left a successful fashion career in Tokyo to pursue her passion for sake in New York City. Starting from the ground up, she quickly rose to become one of New York’s leading sake sommeliers, curating an exceptional three hundred label sake program at the renowned restaurant Sakagura.
In 2008, she launched Sake Discoveries to bring a fresh, dynamic approach to sake education, branding, and events across the United States. Today, the company partners with restaurants, breweries, and organizations to develop sake programs, staff training, and large-scale events that make sake more accessible, and engaging. As a WSET instructor, certified sommelier, and honored Sake Samurai, Chizuko continues to champion Japanese craft through thoughtful storytelling and cultural connection. Sake Discoveries exists to celebrate sake’s rich traditions while helping new audiences discover its beauty.
