Hiro Sake Wins Double Gold and 98 Points at San Francisco International Wine & Spirits Competition

News related to:Hiro Sake · 1 min read
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Hiro Sake, a premium Japanese sake brand, has achieved a remarkable milestone by earning a Double Gold Medal and an exceptional 98-point score at the 2026 San Francisco International Wine & Spirits Competition. This recognition marks a significant moment for the brand as it continues to gain recognition among American consumers, sommeliers, chefs, and beverage professionals.
The 98-point score is particularly noteworthy, as it is the highest ever awarded to a sake at the San Francisco International Wine & Spirits Competition. This exceptional score underscores the quality and craftsmanship of Hiro Sake, placing it among the most highly acclaimed products recognized by the competition.
Carlos Arana, co-founder and CEO of Hiro Sake, expressed his pride and validation of the brand's quality.
The San Francisco International Wine & Spirits Competition brings together leading judges and beverage professionals to evaluate wines, spirits, and other beverages from around the world. Medals are awarded following professional blind evaluation, with Double Gold reserved for products receiving exceptional recognition from the judging panel.
Hiro Sake has built its reputation around bringing the distinctive character and craftsmanship of Japanese sake to an international audience. The 98-point score provides powerful independent recognition of the brand's quality and reinforces Hiro's positioning in the growing premium sake market.
Marco Destefanis, Marketing VP, commented on the significance of the award.
The award comes at an important moment for Hiro Sake as the premium Japanese sake category continues to gain recognition among American consumers. This achievement not only highlights the brand's commitment to excellence but also underscores the growing appreciation for premium sake in the United States.
The 98-point score is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Hiro Sake team, as well as the quality of the product itself. This recognition will undoubtedly strengthen Hiro Sake's position in the competitive premium sake market and further establish its reputation as a leading brand in the industry.