Kiku-Masamune Taru Junmai Sake, Japan

Kiku-Masamune Taru Junmai Sake, Hyogo, Japan, captures the essence of old-world tradition in a bottle meant to be enjoyed any day, not just on special occasions. Brewed in the kimoto style and stored in hand-crafted Yoshino cedar barrels made by the brewery itself, this sake evokes the fragrant, woodsy ambiance of a Japanese cedar forest with every pour. The brewery’s pursuit of dry sake since 1659 is fully realized here—rich in umami, structured by spice, and anchored by the savory-sweet essence of pristine craftsmanship.

Product Details:

• Type: Junmai (Kimoto method)
• Rice Polishing Ratio: 70%
• SMV: +5
• Acidity: 1.4
• Alcohol: 15%
  

Sensory Description:

This sake opens with enchanting aromas of cedar forest, Christmas spice, and warm wood. On the palate, it delivers a refined balance of smoky umami up front with subtle black pepper and baking spice unfolding on the back end. Medium-bodied and impeccably dry, it finishes with refreshing clarity and lingering spice, highlighting the taru-zake tradition while remaining modern in its accessibility.

Awards & Accolades:

• Trophy – Hyogo Taru-zake Trophy, International Wine Challenge, 2025
• Gold – International Wine Challenge, 2025
• Great Value – International Wine Challenge, 2025
• Commended – International Wine Challenge, 2024
• Silver – International Wine Challenge, 2023
• Bronze – International Wine Challenge, 2023
• Platinum Medal – Kura Master, 2023
• Bronze – International Wine Challenge, 2022
• Silver – International Wine Challenge, 2022

Producer’s Background:

Founded in 1659 in the Nada region, Kiku-Masamune Brewing Company is one of Japan’s oldest sake producers and a leader in traditional kimoto brewing. The Kano family has presided over the brewery since its inception, maintaining a singular focus on producing dry sake that embodies clarity, purity, and balance. With a legacy that includes supplying the Imperial Household and pioneering exports to the West, Kiku-Masamune continues to uphold centuries of brewing heritage with modern excellence.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve gently warmed (110–120°F) to highlight its cedar aromatics, or slightly chilled (50–55°F) for a crisper expression. Ideal pairings include grilled seafood, yakitori, smoked meats, and hearty winter vegetables. Also excellent with aged cheeses or umami-rich dishes like sukiyaki or miso-glazed eggplant.

This is a sake steeped in legacy and crafted for today’s drinker. Whether you're starting your home izakaya or looking for a unique gift, Kiku-Masamune Taru Junmai Sake, Hyogo, Japan, brings warmth, spice, and centuries of craftsmanship to the table.