Discovering the Best of Sake in Japan: Insights from SAKETIME

In our quest to highlight the top sake brands of 2023, we've turned to the most authoritative source in the field, SAKETIME (www.saketime.jp), the most visited sake website in Japan. Drawing from their extensive ranking, we present a curated list of best sake brands in Japan tailored for international enthusiasts and importers. This list includes: 

1. Hinotori - Aramasa Sake Brewery, Akita; 
2. Juyondai - Takagi Sake Brewery, Yamagata; 
3. Kinsuzume - Horie Sake Brewery, Yamaguchi; 
4. Shinshukirei - Okazaki Sake Brewery, Nagano; 
5. No.6 - Aramasa Sake Brewery, Akita; 
6. IBI - Sugihara Sake Brewery, Gifu; 
7. Miyakanbai - Kanbai Sake Brewery, Miyagi; 
8. Denshogiku - Kankiku Meijo Brewery, Chiba; 
9. Jikon - Kiyasho Sake Brewery, Mie;
10. Sogga pere et fils - Obuse Winery, Nagano. 

Each of these Japanese sake brands has been recognized for its unique qualities, craftsmanship, and the exceptional sake experience they offer. Let's explore what makes these brands stand out in the dynamic world of Japanese sake in 2023.

Most Popular Sake Brands in Japan

#1 Hinotori - Aramasa Sake Brewery, Akita

‍The Aramasa Sake Brewery's Hinotori is a remarkable embodiment of innovation meeting tradition. The sake's rich texture is infused with flavors akin to mango and pineapple, offering a sweet and sour complexity that tantalizes the palate. This creation marks the debut of their "Private Lab" series, an initiative led by the 8th-generation brewer, Yusuke Sato, symbolizing a rebirth in modern sake crafting. Hinotori's process involves an intriguing twist – the partial substitution of water with sake during brewing, enriching its flavor profile. This technique results in a denser, sweeter sake that is strikingly complex. The use of locally sourced Miyamanishiki rice and oak barrel storage further enhances its distinctive character, making Hinotori a symbol of innovation in the sake world.

#2 Juyondai - Takagi Sake Brewery, Yamagata

‍Juyondai, crafted by the Takagi Sake Brewery, stands as a paragon of modern sake flavors. Under the stewardship of the youthful 15th-generation brewer, Kentsu Takagi, this sake embodies a mellow umami richness coupled with the inherent sweetness and aroma of rice. Unique in its approach, the brewery has pioneered the development of three sake rice types, including "Sake Mirai" and "Ushu Homare", demonstrating a deep commitment to exploring the essence of rice and sake flavors. Juyondai's offerings, notably the "Junmai Nakadori Unfiltered Sake", are renowned for their exquisite taste and rarity. This brand's compatibility with traditional Japanese dishes like sashimi and tempura highlights its culinary versatility.

#3 Kinsuzume - Horie Sake Brewery, Yamaguchi

‍The Horie Sake Brewery, with its storied past dating back to 1764, presents Kinsuzume, a testament to the timeless art of sake brewing. Located near the iconic Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni City, this brewery has earned global acclaim, particularly for its "Premium Kinsuzume", which clinched the top honor in the Junmai Daiginjo category at the International Wine Challenge (IWC) in consecutive years. Kinsuzume's flavor profile, described as "beautiful and juicy" by IWC judges, balances fruitiness with sharpness, embodying the elegance of orthodox sake. Whether it's the aged "Long-term Ginjo" or the "Junmai Ginjo Kimoto", Kinsuzume demonstrates the brewery's prowess in harmonizing traditional yeast with modern aging techniques.

#4 Shinshukirei - Okazaki Sake Brewery, Nagano

‍Nestled in the historic environs of Ueda City, a former post town in the Sanada domain, Okazaki Sake Brewery's Shinshukirei is a tribute to Nagano's sake heritage. The brewery, established in 1665, found new life under Ms. Okazaki, a Tokyo University of Agriculture alumni and Toji since 2003. Her expertise is evident in the use of local Miyamanishiki and Hitogochi rice, yielding a sake with distinct clarity and transparency. Shinshukirei particularly shines when paired with robustly flavored dishes, offering a refreshing taste that complements the intensity of meats. Its dry profile and suitability for warming further add to its appeal.

#5 No.6 - Aramasa Sake Brewery, Akita

‍The No. 6 series from Aramasa Sake Brewery is a celebration of the distinctive No. 6 yeast, a hallmark of the brewery's innovative spirit. This unpasteurized sake series is a masterful blend of traditional Junmai brewing with contemporary flair, encapsulated in its fresh, wine-like qualities. By maintaining the sake at temperatures below -5°C, the brewery ensures year-round availability of this vibrant “Namazake”. The No.6 series, including the highly polished "X-type" (Excellence) and the robust "S-type" (Superior) as well as the “R-type” (Regular), showcases a stylish design and a unique sensory experience, characterized by effervescence, acidity, and a fruity aroma reminiscent of strawberries and peaches.

#6 IBI - Sugihara Sake Brewery, Gifu

‍At Sugihara Sake Brewery, the IBI brand stands as a symbol of artisanal excellence in a small-scale setting. This family-run brewery, renowned as Japan's smallest, is led by its fifth-generation master brewer, Mr. Sugihara. The brewery's commitment to quality is evident in the development of the original sake rice "Ibi no Homare", crafted in collaboration with local agricultural experts and farmers. IBI's range, including the "IBI GOLD" Junmai Daiginjo and "IBI SILVER" Junmai Ginjo, and the unique "IBI BLACK" and "IBI WHITE" variants, reflects a dedication to capturing the essence of its terroir. The limited availability and high demand for IBI make it a sought-after brand among sake aficionados.

#7 Miyakanbai - Kanbai Sake Brewery, Miyagi

‍The Kanbai Sake Brewery's journey through adversity to triumph is embodied in its Miyakanbai brand. Devastated by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the brewery, with support from across Japan, not only rebuilt itself but also redefined its focus exclusively on Junmai sake. Miyakanbai's offerings, primarily Junmai Daiginjo and Junmai Ginjo, are a blend of in-house and locally contracted rice, ensuring consistent quality. The brand gained international recognition when featured in ANA's first-class flights and at prestigious events like the Milano Salone. With accessible names like "Mr. Summer Time" and "Winter Blooming Heated Sake", Miyakanbai appeals to both novices and connoisseurs with its clean, sweet profile.

#8 Denshogiku - Kankiku Meijo Brewery, Chiba

‍The Denshogiku brand from Kankiku Meijo Brewery is a celebration of special moments, released only once a year. Brewed in Yamatake City, Chiba Prefecture, since 1883, the brewery’s focus on unfiltered sake results in a product that is both innovative and traditional. Denshogiku, with its fruity aroma and soft, sweet rice flavor, is an inviting entry point for those new to sake. The brewery’s commitment to non-pasteurized sake adds a fresh, juicy dimension to this unique offering.

#9 Jikon - Kiyasho Sake Brewery, Mie

‍Since its introduction in 2004, Jikon has been a beacon of innovation and quality in the sake world. The sixth-generation brewer, Onishi, brings a meticulous approach to every step of the brewing process, resulting in sake with a clear, fruity profile, balanced sweetness, and refreshing acidity. Jikon's compatibility with international cuisines, particularly Italian, showcases its versatility and global appeal. The brand's cloudy sake offerings provide an additional dimension of taste and texture.

#10 Sogga pere et fils - Obuse Winery, Nagano

‍Unique in its origins, Sogga pere et fils is produced by Obuse Winery, a winemaker turned sake brewer. This small-batch sake is crafted using organic Miyamanishiki rice and the traditional "Kimoto" method. The variety in yeast strains, indicated by French numbering on the labels, adds a distinctive touch to each batch, offering a spectrum of flavors ranging from mild sweetness to sharp acidity.

Conclusion: Savor the Best of Japan's Sake

Our journey through the top 10 sake brands in Japan for 2023 showcases the rich diversity and exceptional quality of Japanese sake. From the innovative approaches of Aramasa to the traditional excellence of Jikon and Juyondai, each brand offers a unique taste experience. While these exclusive brands may be rare finds abroad, their allure is undeniable. 

For those interested in exploring more or considering importing these exquisite sakes, contact us. We offer a comprehensive selection of over 1000 bottles from more than 50 breweries, ensuring a perfect match for every taste and preference. Get in touch and let us help you discover the perfect sake to delight your palate or enhance your business offerings.