Chanterelle's Master Sommelier Named Sake Samurai

Roger Dagorn Garners Prestigious Honor from Japan Sake Brewers Association

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. November 11, 2008

NOVEMBER 11, 2008. Chanterelle restaurant's renowned Master Sommelier, Roger Dagorn, was appointed the rare title of Sake Samurai in an elaborate ceremony in Japan. Dagorn journeyed to Kyoto to accept this honor from The Japanese Sake Brewers Association, a title bestowed on only 17 specialists in the world.

The Japan Sake Brewers Association created the Sake Samurai distinction to inspire and restore pride in the two thousand year old Japanese tradition, and to spread sake culture not only within Japan but throughout the world. Dagorn has pioneered the introduction of fine, artisanal sakes in the West, having the vision to embrace and advocate its unique and rare qualities. Dagorn acts as an ambassador and educator of sake subtleties, seeking out and championing the high quality selections now available in the U.S. market.

"It is an honor to be named a Sake Samurai and recognized for what is a genuine and longstanding passion for sake," says Roger Dagorn, Master Sommelier at Chanterelle. "Through the years, I have had the great privilege of discovering and becoming good friends with this industry's finest producers. It is them that I would like to thank for sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for this admirable cultural tradition."

Among his accolades, Roger Dagorn has received the highest award from the James Beard Foundation for Outstanding Wine Service, named Best Sommelier in New York by Chefs in America, Restaurant Wine & Spirits Professional of the Year by Sant'e Magazine, and Best Sommelier by the New York Press. Dagorn has served as a judge for the Best Sommelier in the World Competition and is a respected educator and lecturer around the world.