The Cape Winelands have long been celebrated for wine, brandy and gin, but a new venture is introducing something altogether different to the region: craft sake with a distinctly South African character.

Makoto, a new sake brand founded by South African beverage strategist Annelize Morkel and Japanese creative Kanatsu Sasaki, aims to bring a drink revered in Japan for more than a 1 000 years to African tables.

The name carries deep significance, rooted in Japanese virtues of honesty, sincerity and authenticity.

ALSO READ: Winelands micro brewery claims Africa’s top beer prize for third time

Immediate connection

According to the founders, the idea took root when Sasaki first visited South Africa several years ago. Struck by the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of the people, she felt a strong connection to the country and began envisioning a way to bridge the two cultures through craft sake.

That vision found a partner in Morkel, a lifelong student of Japanese culture and martial arts whose career has centred on food, wine and tourism.

“Makoto was written in our stars. We wanted to create something that is authentic, real and deeply personal. Intentionally created to bring different cultures together to honor and celebrate the best of both,” Morkel explained.

Sasaki, a well-travelled woman who has seen firsthand how countries connect through meaningful shared experiences, sees common ground between the two cultures.

‘The Makoto Way’

“Japan and Africa share a deep respect for craftsmanship and community. Makoto is where those worlds meet and we are excited to share our journey,” Sasaki said.

After years of exploration, the founders had the opportunity to work with an 18th-generation sake brewer to develop a distinctive product. Using carefully sourced ingredients, they reportedly combined Japanese brewing tradition with African innovation in pursuit of excellence.

The founders describe the result as “The Makoto Way” – Japanese precision meeting the dynamic spirit of Africa, one sip at a time.

Makoto’s range is available at selected high-end restaurants or here.

ALSO READ: Top awards for Blaauwklippen at prestigious LUMO Awards