From Champagne to IWA: Richard Geoffroy is Pioneering a New Craft in Sake Wine Spectator Wine Seminar

“IWA speaks the language of wine drinkers. It’s against all odds—the familiar statement is that sakes don’t age, but IWA does.” – Richard Geoffroy

Born in the heart of Shiraiwa, Toyama Prefecture, Japan, IWA is founded on the principles of curiosity, experimentation, and innovation. Established by Richard Geoffroy, former Chef de Cave of Dom Pérignon, IWA pioneers a modern take on traditional sake –rooted in blending, bottle aging, and the pursuit of balance –creating sake that speaks to wine drinkers and challenges the long-held belief that sake cannot evolve with time.

Produced at IWA’s own kura in Shiraiwa, where Richard Geoffroy works alongside Master Brewer Yabuta Toji, the Assemblage bottlings highlight remarkable depth, harmony, and versatility. Crafted to pair seamlessly with global cuisines, IWA has earned its place in more than 140 Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide, inspiring a new generation of curious palates.

Guests will explore a rare vertical tasting of five IWA Assemblages, including early releases, alongside the newly released and groundbreaking IWA Reserves, discovering how Richard Geoffroy’s vision transcends categories to position sake among the world’s great wines.

Featured Wines:
1. IWA - Assemblage 2 (2020)
2. IWA - Assemblage 3 (2021)
3. IWA - Assemblage 4 (2022)
4. IWA - Assemblage 5 (2023)
5. IWA - Assemblage 6 (2024)
6. IWA - Reserves