Professionals from the hospitality industry in New York City got a chance on Wednesday to taste some of the best sake from Japan's northeastern prefecture of Fukushima.
Eleven sake brewers from the region took part in the promotional event, which was organized by the prefectural government.
They explained the characteristics of each brand to attendants from some of the city's restaurants and bars.
One man working at a cocktail bar in Brooklyn said the event was an excellent opportunity to "present some great offerings to our customers," as well as to support Fukushima. He said New Yorkers are well aware of the nuclear disaster in 2011.
For Kobayashi Yasushi, the president of the Otokoyamashuzouten brewery, it was the first time to take part in such a sales promotion.
"New Yorkers who came to this event have told me that sake from Fukushima is delicious," Kobayashi said. "I think the name Fukushima has a lot of brand value."
A Fukushima prefectural official who organized the event said the United States is the largest export market for the region's sake, but competition is fierce. He said the local government plans to hold more events of this kind to expand sales.

Quiz 1:
Where did the promotional event take place?
A. Los Angeles
B. New York City
C. Tokyo
D. Fukushima

Answer block:
Answers:
Quiz 1: B

Quiz 2:
What is the largest export market for sake from Fukushima?
A. Australia
B. Canada
C. United States
D. China

Answer block:
Answers:
Quiz 2: C

Quiz 3:
Who organized the event in New York City for Fukushima sake brewers?
A. The Japanese embassy in NYC
B. The prefectural government of Fukushima
C. A group of NYC restaurant and bar owners
D. Local sake enthusiasts

Answer block:
Answers:
Quiz 3: B