Celebrating 31 Years of 'Gengai': A Vintage that Overcame Adversity
The timeless allure of Japanese sake reaches new heights with the announcement of the limited pre-order for the rare 31-year aged vintage sake, 'Gengai,' by SAKE HUNDRED. Starting April 8, 2026, this exquisite sake will be available for early purchasers who not only get a chance to own a piece of history but also an exclusive invitation to a delightful pairing dinner at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo.
A Taste of History Embedded in Every Drop
Since the catastrophic Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995, which devastated numerous breweries, the journey of 'Gengai' began. The only remaining tank at the historic Sawano-Tsuru brewery, located in the Nada district of Kobe, housed a batch of sake that was never fully completed due to the damage to their facilities. What was left was a brew known as 'kobo' (yeast starter) that, despite the odds, matured during the intervening years to become a rich, complex sake that embodies the spirit of resilience.
This remarkable sake has undergone a unique aging process, revealing its character over three decades. Each bottle merges flavor nuances of sweetness, acidity, bitterness, and umami in an exhilarating balance that tells the story of its origins. At a price of ¥297,000 (500ml), 'Gengai' is not just a beverage but a luxurious experience, reflecting both time's passage and the expertise of the artisans behind its creation.
The Exclusive Dining Experience
To celebrate the launch, six pairs (12 individuals) will be privileged to experience a complimentary special tasting dinner at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo on June 6, 2026. Guests will savor culinary delights crafted by renowned chefs, designed to complement the sophisticated flavor profile of 'Gengai.' In an intimate setting, attendees will engage in discussions about the sake's intricate pairing possibilities with SAKE HUNDRED's brand owner, Ryushi Ikoma.
Event Details:
- - Date: June 6, 2026
- - Time: 18:15 doors open, 18:30 dinner starts, concluding by 21:00
- - Location: Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 'French Kitchen'
- - Cost: Free for selected guests
To secure a chance for this exclusive dinner, interested customers can pre-order 'Gengai' starting April 8 and select the dinner pairing option at checkout.
The 'Gengai' sake exemplifies the delicate interplay between time and flavor manifestation in sake. Beyond its price, it represents an appreciated rarity and is adorned with a serial number and a guarantee card affirming its age and quality—an assurance that every bottle is uniquely crafted and irreplaceable.
A Future Set in Time
As society evolves, so too does the appreciation of aged sake, which holds the potential to rise in value as time passes. The trials of 'Gengai,' marked by its creation and eventual emergence as a distinguished sake, project a future where such vintage sakes are celebrated globally, sitting alongside the finest of wine brands in prestigious circles.
Join us in this extraordinary journey as we honor the spirit of 'Gengai,' crafted by the hands of those who dared to believe in the magic of Japanese sake, even in the aftermath of adversity. Be part of history; indulge in a unique experience that ensures every sip tells a tale of resilience, quality, and tradition. Together, let's celebrate the art of sake making that transcends generations.
For further inquiries and to explore more about this remarkable offering, visit
SAKE HUNDRED's official site.