The Fine Sake Awards Japan and the Evolution of Tradition
Combining traditional Japanese charm and modern style, “ワイングラスでおいしい日本酒アワード = The Fine Sake Awards Japan” is a bridge to introduce the new appeal of sake to people in Japan and abroad. In this unique contest, the aromas and flavors of sake are explored in depth through Riedel’s exclusive wine glasses. Blind tastings, that is, tastings conducted without informing the public of the brand name, focus on the essence of sake. Fifty-three sake experts will join the judges to evaluate the quality of the products in six categories: Main, Sparkling SAKE, Premium Daiginjo, Premium Junmai, Premium Aged Sake, and Premium Sparkling SAKE.
This event aims to expand the sake drinking scene beyond the three key barriers of age, national borders, and cuisine. As Japanese food and sushi gain worldwide popularity and Japanese food culture is enjoyed internationally, tasting sake in a wine glass enhances its aroma and visual appeal. The shape of the wine glass is ideal for the delicate aroma, subtle color, and viscosity of sake, and enhances its attractiveness.
This award started in 2011, and more than 1,000 entries from about 200 sake breweries from all over Japan were submitted, with 55 Grand Gold Medal and 267 Gold Medal awards. The purpose is not to compete in quality, but to promote the excellence of sake, to discover the demand for sake, and to contribute to the succession and development of Japanese culture. Through this project, the participating experts are trying to introduce the new appeal of sake the world. They hope that the spread of the style of sake enjoyed in a wine glass will further enrich Japan’s food culture. (Mr. Bacchus)
Here are some of the prize-winning sake brands that we deal with this year!
紀土-KID-純米吟醸酒 KID JUNMAI-GINJO
About Heiwa Brewery
Founded in 1928 in Wakayama Prefecture, Heiwa Sake Brewery takes advantage of the rich natural resources and uses locally produced high quality rice and clean water. Due to this commitment to quality and unique brewing process, Heiwa Sake Brewery’s sake has a clean and crisp finish and has won numerous international awards. In particular, the company’s Muryoyama Junmai Ginjo was selected as “Champion Sake” at the 2020 International Wine Challenge (IWC), and Heiwa Shuzo was awarded the title of “Sake Brewery of the Year” for the second consecutive year. was also awarded, highlighting his outstanding contribution to the sake industry.
