Kentaro 'Kira Kira' Sparkling Sake, Japan

In the tranquil city of Kyoto, where lanterns flicker across quiet canals and spring breezes carry the scent of plum blossoms, Kentaro Brewery captures a moment of pure joy in liquid form. ‘Kira Kira’, meaning “to sparkle” in Japanese, is a playful, effervescent sake that shines with youthful energy and refined craftsmanship. Light, refreshing, and full of charm, it’s Kyoto’s twinkle in a glass.

Product Details

• Sake Type: Sparkling Junmai
• Polishing Ratio: 60%
• ABV: 5%
• Acidity: 1.4
• Farming Practices: Sustainably cultivated rice; pure mountain spring water
• Fermentation: Secondary fermentation in the bottle for natural effervescence
• Filtration: Lightly filtered for soft texture and visual clarity
• Aging: Brief cold aging to preserve freshness
• Pasteurization: Once (Namachozo style)

Sensory Description

The ‘Kira Kira’ Sparkling Sake opens with aromas of pink lemonade, cherry blossom, and citrus zest. On the palate, lively bubbles carry flavors of tart cherry, strawberry cream, and a touch of yuzu. Its creamy texture balances the bright acidity, creating a refreshing interplay of sweetness and tang. With its low alcohol and gentle sparkle, it’s effortlessly drinkable a sake that feels as playful as it is polished.

Awards & Accolades

• Gold Tokyo International Sake Challenge (2024; Non-Vintage)
• Silver Fine Sake Awards Japan (2023; Non-Vintage)
• 91 Points Decanter Asia Wine Awards (2023; Non-Vintage)

Producer’s Background

Founded in 1898, Kentaro Brewery stands as one of Kyoto’s enduring sake houses, blending historic craftsmanship with modern flair. Under the guidance of Toji Ryohei Nakamura, the brewery focuses on elegant, expressive sakes that reflect Kyoto’s natural serenity and cultural grace. ‘Kira Kira’ is their contemporary expression of joy, a sparkling sake made to celebrate life’s simple, fleeting pleasures with a modern twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve well-chilled at 4–6°C (39–43°F) in a flute or tulip glass to highlight its lively effervescence. Perfect as an aperitif or alongside soft cheeses, fruit tarts, or Thai dishes such as pad thai. It also pairs beautifully with fresh berries or citrus sorbet, making it a delightful choice for brunch or dessert.

Delicate, cheerful, and irresistibly refreshing, Kentaro ‘Kira Kira’ Sparkling Sake captures the art of Kyoto in motion, a glittering fusion of lightness, flavor, and joy that sparkles long after the last sip.