Stephen Lyman

Stephen Lyman serves as the Ambassador for Honkaku Imports, LLC, a company focused on introducing artisanal Japanese spirits to the American market. He is notably recognized for his expertise in Japanese beverages, being the author of the James Beard Award-nominated The Complete Guide to Japanese Drinks. Currently based in Fukuoka, Japan, Lyman is actively involved in promoting shochu and awamori, traditional Japanese spirits, and has been designated as a Honkaku Shochu and Ryukyu Awamori Ambassador by the Japanese Cabinet Office.123

Lyman's journey into the world of spirits began with a deep appreciation for koji-based beverages, which led him to co-found Honkaku Spirits alongside Christopher Pellegrini. Together, they aim to elevate the profile of shochu and awamori internationally. Lyman is also working on a documentary about shochu and participates in the production of handmade sweet potato shochu at Yamato Zakura Distillery each fall.23

In addition to his role at Honkaku, Lyman has contributed to the education of the hospitality industry regarding Japanese spirits and co-hosts a podcast titled Japan Distilled, focusing on the nuances of Japanese alcoholic beverages.12