Sake Educator: François Lavergne

Oenologist in California; former Managing Director of Le Cordon Bleu in Japan, of Sopexa, and the Northwest Airlines wine festivals – Francois’ adventures have taken him across the world!

His passion for sake began more than 25 years ago, when he travelled to Tokyo to open the third branch of Cordon Bleu’s international cooking school. There he fell in love with the drink, and continued to create sae events in new locations as he travelled the world; as well as pioneering new food pairings with sake. In 2015, Francois was award the first Sake Ambassador title for his work in developing the global sake community.

Alongside all this, he has created his own champagne label, Champagne Lavergne; judged at Japan’s International Tea Contest, and published two books! We’re very proud to have him as a member of our team.