My Ysidro story began with a text from a friend and fellow wine lover asking me if I had tried the brand and asking me to chip in on an order because she really enjoyed it. Usually, I’m hesitant about canned beverages since past experiences haven’t won me over, so I was genuinely curious to see how Ysidro would taste.
Ysidro is a sparkling sake brand co-founded by Monica Epstein (and also her husband Seth and Alex Dessouiy), who set out to create a lighter, modern alternative to traditional sparkling wines. Based on her vision for a beverage that blends the craftsmanship of wine with the ease of a refreshing sipper, Ysidro highlights natural ingredients, clean flavors, and an approachable style designed to appeal to today’s wine drinkers.
Drawing on her family history, her love of entertaining, and her commitment to crafting quality beverages with natural ingredients, Monica launched Ysidro to offer a fresh, approachable style designed to fit both everyday and celebratory moments. They tasted through many spirits and found Junmai Ginjo made the best version of the drink.
Ysidro Sparkling has a deep connection to Montecito—the brand is named after San Ysidro Road, near where its founders live. Monica created the drink during the pandemic as a celebration of the Montecito community and lifestyle she loves. The beverage is crafted with intention, blending premium Junmai Ginjo sake with organic grapefruit and sea salt to capture the region’s coastal elegance and relaxed vibe. The can’s soft pink hue is inspired by the famous “pink moment” sunsets unique to the Montecito and the Santa Barbara area.
Junmai Ginjo sake is special because it offers a delicate and refined drinking experience through a meticulous brewing process. The rice used is polished to at least 60%, removing more of the outer layers, which results in a lighter body. Made without added alcohol, Junmai Ginjo highlights the pure essence of rice with a balanced flavor profile that can be both rich and crisp, making it a favorite for those who appreciate sophisticated, complex sake with real depth. They work directly with one of the oldest brewers of sake and Ysidro is the only brand they partner with.
What stood out to me wasn’t just the clean, elegant look of the Ysidro can, but the intent behind it. Monica’s vision was rooted in honoring her family while also making something accessible and genuinely fun.
Monica told me a story about Ysidros experience about attending food and wine festivals recently. She told me that they typically have a quiet start, but are completely slammed by the end because consumers love how refreshing it is.
The good news in today’s beverage world is that while overall drinking rates are declining, sake is experiencing remarkable growth. As consumers seek new and authentic experiences, this traditional Japanese beverage is captivating a broader audience.
So did I enjoy it? Yes, I tasted grapefruit, sea salt and green apples with a mineral-driven finish. If you like sake, grapefruit and a little brine, you should enjoy.
Ysidro is a thoughtful blend of heritage, innovation, and approachable elegance. Monica and her team have crafted a drink that captures the spirit of Montecito while offering something fresh and exciting. With its delicate Junmai Ginjo base, bright flavors, and clean finish, Ysidro proves that canned doesn’t have to mean compromised.
