John Gauntner

About the Author

John Gauntner is a renowned authority on Japanese sake, having immersed himself in the culture and craft of this ancient beverage for over three decades. Born in the United States, he moved to Japan in the 1980s, where he apprenticed under master brewers and explored the intricate world of sake production from rural kura to urban tasting rooms. As one of the few non-Japanese individuals to receive the prestigious title of Sake Expert from the Japan Sake Brewers Association, Gauntner has dedicated his career to demystifying sake for Western audiences through his accessible writings and educational seminars. His passion for the nuances of rice varieties, water sources, and fermentation techniques shines through in his work, making complex subjects approachable for enthusiasts and novices alike. Today, he continues to travel, teach, and advocate for the appreciation of sake's rich heritage.