Japanese Sake Crafted from Table Rice Wins Top Award in France's Kura Master

Kikkawa Brewery, based in Isehara City, Kanagawa, has made waves in the world of sake by winning the first place at the Kura Master 2025 competition with their acclaimed sake, 'Kiku Yu Dry Junmai.' This prestigious award highlights the brewery’s innovative approach to sake-making by using table rice instead of traditional sake rice.

Tradition Meets Innovation

Traditionally, sake is brewed using specific rice varieties known as sake rice, which have larger grains of starch known as 'shin-paku.' This allows for easier fermentation and a purer flavor. However, Kikkawa Brewery is challenging the norms by crafting sake from table rice, which typically contains proteins and fats that can complicate the brewing process.

Despite the hurdles, Kikkawa Brewery has honed a method to produce sake from table rice, showcasing a notable depth of flavor that has surprised sake enthusiasts around the world. Their pursuit of low-polishing sake (sake polished to about 90% of its original size) has earned them accolades from various global competitions, including the International Wine Challenge (IWC).

The recent award-winning sake, 'Kiku Yu Dry Junmai,' is made from a blend of table rice varietals including Koshihikari and Sasanishiki. Notably, blending rice with varying grain sizes and compositions adds complexity to the brewing process. Utilizing traditional techniques like 'kimoto' fermentation alongside modern low-temperature, long-term fermentation has led to the creation of this remarkable sake. Kikkawa Brewery also incorporated new strains of koji mold, specifically developed for optimal fermentation quality.

About Kura Master

Kura Master is a prestigious sake competition held in France since 2017, specifically aimed at introducing Japanese sake to French consumers. The competition emphasizes the pairing of alcohol with food, reflecting the historical French culinary heritage. In 2025, a total of 1,083 sake entries, both from Japan and foreign breweries, were subjected to rigorous blind tastings led by a panel of esteemed sommeliers including Xavier Thuizat, a prominent figure in the industry.

The recent competition also focused on wine and drink pairings, introducing a range of high-quality sake to the European market, highlighting the craftsmanship behind each bottle. The Kura Master judging committee is comprised of over 135 professionals, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process.

Challenges in Sake Production

The brewing industry faces modern obstacles such as climate change, which poses challenges to traditional sake-making. Kikkawa Brewery is committed to pursuing the authentic taste of sake by minimizing rice polishing and utilizing modern fermentation techniques to adapt to changing environmental conditions. The recent award is not just a testament to their dedication but also serves as motivation to promote the profound allure of sake worldwide.

Additionally, the rise of table rice for reserves presents a unique opportunity for experimenting with new rice varietals, which Kikkawa Brewery intends to embrace in their future creations.

Kikkawa Brewery’s innovative spirit encapsulates the blend of tradition and innovation, aiming to explore new possibilities for sake making, inviting enthusiasts and newcomers alike on a journey of extraordinary flavors.

Other Award-Winning Sakes

Aside from 'Kiku Yu,' Kikkawa Brewery also received Platinum awards in the Classic Motohashi category for two remarkable sakes:

- 'Mizumoto' ($25), showcasing an ancient method of brewing that brings forth complex layers of flavor similar to an impromptu musical performance.
- 'Kimoto' ($20), which delivers a distinct clarity and a balance of acidity, making it a perfect complement to various cuisines.

About Kikkawa Brewery

Founded in 1912 at the foot of the Tanzawa mountains, Kikkawa Brewery, known for its label 'Kiku Yu,' is synonymous with high-quality sake. With a legacy rooted in grafting exquisite brewing techniques, Kikkawa Brewery has successfully navigated challenges such as the ongoing pandemic and evolved under the Shimada Group, emphasizing the fusion of tradition and innovation in their productions. Their new branding, 'Afurikawa,' reflects this commitment.

The brewery continues to strive for excellence, reaching new horizons in sake production by redefining what craft sake can be and sharing the true essence of Japanese culture with the world.