Discover Sake of the Month: A Cultural Experience at JW Marriott Tokyo

The Sake of the Month: Amabiki at JW Marriott Tokyo

In September 2026, the exceptional sake 'Amabiki' from Yoshikawa Brewery in Isehara, Kanagawa, will be highlighted at the JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo's main dining restaurant, 'Kakō'. This limited-time offering will run from September 1 to September 30 and will showcase three varieties: 'Amabiki NARI', 'Amabiki KIMOTO', and 'Amabiki RINGOSAN 77', served in elegant glasses for guests to enjoy.

Celebrating Unique Breweries with 'Sake of the Month'

'Kakō' embraces both traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary sensibilities, providing an exquisite dining experience. The restaurant features impressive open shelves adorned with over 120 ceramics against a backdrop of expansive windows showcasing the stunning Tokyo Bay area. Guests can indulge in seasonal dishes that reflect Japan's four seasons, complemented by a beverage menu focused on 'Made in Japan' offerings. Each month, the 'Sake of the Month' initiative shines a spotlight on a specific brewery or sake style, introducing three carefully selected varieties. This month, the distinguished 'Amabiki' will take center stage.

Three Unique Sakes: A Shared Origin of Water

All three showcased sakes are crafted using hard water sourced from the foothills of the Oyama region, known for its mineral-rich properties with a hardness of around 150mg/L. Such high mineral content is rare in sake production, allowing these three distinctive sakes to express their unique character.

1. Amabiki NARI – The flagship sake has garnered prestigious awards, including a Platinum Award at the Kura Master 2022 and a Gold Medal at the International Wine Challenge 2026. The IWC judges noted its vibrant aromas reminiscent of a bouquet of white lilies, honeysuckle, and a basket full of fruits that gracefully dance on the palate with its smooth and sophisticated texture, reminiscent of fresh tropical fruits.

2. Amabiki KIMOTO – A modern interpretation of traditional sake-making, this junmai sake utilizes the ancient Kimoto method. Made with Hyogo Prefecture’s Yamadanishiki rice, it offers a clear and refreshing taste, with mild acidity and rich depth, making it an excellent companion for various dishes.

3. Amabiki RINGOSAN 77 – Awarded a Gold Medal at the Kura Master 2024, this sake employs yeast No. 77, known for its high tartness levels, which brings out fresh green apple aromas. The delicate flavor of Yamadanishiki rice harmonizes with a slight dryness and a subtle but pleasant bitterness, creating a sophisticated, elegant sweetness.

A Special Collaboration by Master Oriol Sola

The 'Sake of the Month' program is curated by Oriol Sola, Director of Operations at JW Marriott Tokyo. A seasoned professional from Spain, Sola has cultivated a deep connection with sake through his extensive experience in the international hospitality industry. He holds qualifications as a Sake Sommelier and Advanced Sake Professional and has direct experience in sake brewing at Otokoyama Hakubutsukan in Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture. Sola’s mission at JW Marriott is to share the diversity and artisan skills of sake with both domestic and international guests.

Oriol Sola's Insight: “At 'Kakō', we offer carefully selected sakes from various regions alongside seasonal Japanese cuisine. Our guests can enjoy sake at the counter or in glasses, allowing them to explore a range of styles and flavors. I encourage everyone to experience 'Amabiki' paired with 'Kakō's' culinary masterpieces. This sake, brewed with hard water, introduces unique characteristics and perspectives that redefine the relationship between sake and Japanese dishes.”

The Story Behind Amabiki

'Amabiki' originates from a rich heritage in Isehara, Kanagawa Prefecture, nestled at the foot of Oyama, also known as 'Amabikiyama' due to its historical significance in rain-making rituals. The name 'Amabiki' pays homage to this revered mountain. The sake is brewed using natural underground water with a hardness level of around 150mg/L. While soft water is traditionally favored in sake production, 'Amabiki' embraces its unique hard water properties, exploring a wide range of brewing techniques from traditional Kimoto to modern yeast methods. Since the brand's establishment in 2021, it has garnered attention and accolades from both domestic and international contests and featured in food magazines such as 'dancyu'.

The design of the bottle and label is a testament to the artistic vision of the company's representative, who is also a first-class architect. The bottle design reflects everyday living styles, inspired by the concept of a one-sho bottle fitting comfortably in a refrigerator door pocket, blending architectural thinking into the world of sake.

About Yoshikawa Brewery

Founded in 1912, Yoshikawa Brewery is situated at the foot of Oyama in Isehara, Kanagawa. With the guiding principle of 'Sake for Life's Sake', the brewery utilizes high-quality hard water to craft both traditional and experimental sake.

Company Name: Yoshikawa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Representative: Goto Yoshihashi
Address: 681 Kondo, Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, 259-1138
Official Website: Yoshikawa Brewery
Instagram: @kikkawa_sake

About Japanese Cuisine 'Kakō'

Address: 29F, 2-21-2 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo, 108-0074
Opening Hours: Lunch 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Last Order 2:30 PM) / Dinner 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM (Last Order 9:00 PM)
Official Website: Kakō Restaurant
Sake of the Month: Sake of the Month
Contact: 03-3434-7070
Email: [email protected]