Japanese fare might be the traditional match for sake, but this tasting series is approaching the rice wine differently. Taking over Arlechin across six nights this February and March, the Tanuki Sake Pop-Up will see the Melbourne Sake crew team up with Italian favourite Grossi, to show punters just how versatile this spirit can be.

Both Grossi alumni themselves, the label's founders Matt Kingsley Shaw and Quentin Hanley are out to share their passion for sake ahead of the imminent launch of their own debut batch. They're hosting various sittings for the pop-up on March 5, 6, 12 and 13. Guests can choose between the one-hour Quick Tanuki experience ($45) — enjoying a special menu of sake-optimised snacks from the Grossi kitchen and a sake on arrival — or dive in deep with the The Grand Tanuki ($90), which also includes a guided premium sake flight.

You'll be able purchase more sake by the glass, along with a range of beers, cocktails and Japanese liquors. And if you taste something you like, there'll be a retail sake selection to stock up that home bar, too. Sittings are available from 5–11pm each night of the pop-up.