It's fascinating to see how much thought and effort goes into something as seemingly straightforward as judging sake. When you look at the Kanto-Shinetsu Sake Awards, particularly the 2020 edition, it’s clear this is far from a casual tasting.
This isn't just about finding a 'good' sake; it's about elevating the craft. The Kanto-Shinetsu Regional Taxation Bureau, overseeing six prefectures known for their ideal brewing conditions, has been doing this since 1965. Their goal is twofold: to push the boundaries of sake brewing technology and to ensure the continued excellence and healthy growth of the sake industry in this beautiful region.
The 2020 awards showcased this dedication, with three distinct categories designed to highlight different facets of sake artistry. First, there was the Ginjo-shu, often described as a liquid work of art, celebrated for its fruity complexity. Then came Junmai-shu, a purer expression made solely from rice, offering a fragrant and intricate profile. And finally, Junmai Ginjo-shu, a harmonious blend that captures the best of both worlds – the fruity notes of Ginjo and the aromatic depth of Junmai.
Imagine the scene: 151 Ginjo-shu entries, 176 Junmai Ginjo-shu, and 86 Junmai-shu products, all from traditional breweries (Meijo-kura) across Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, Niigata, and Nagano. These aren't just bottles on a shelf; they represent generations of brewing knowledge and a deep connection to the land.
The judging process itself is a testament to the seriousness of the endeavor. Held over several days in late September and early October 2020, the panel, comprised of experts from public research organizations and the taxation bureau itself, used all their senses. This wasn't a quick sip and score; it was a meticulous evaluation.
Takeshi Kurihara, the Regional Commissioner, had the honor of presenting the Grand Prizes, along with Special and Excellence Prizes. These awards aren't just accolades; they are markers of exceptional quality, recognizing those who have truly mastered their craft. For instance, in the Ginjo-shu category, SOHOMARE SAKE BREWERY CO.,LTD. from Tochigi took home the Grand Prize, a significant achievement.
It's the sheer breadth of recognition that truly stands out. Beyond the top honors, 49 manufacturers received Excellence Prizes in Ginjo-shu, 56 in Junmai Ginjo-shu, and 27 in Junmai-shu. This shows a robust and competitive landscape, with many breweries consistently producing outstanding sake.
Looking at the list of winners, you see names like KIRINZAN SHUZOU CO.,LTD. and MORISHIMA SHUZOU CO.,LTD. receiving Special Prizes, and a host of others earning Excellence Prizes across the prefectures. Each name represents a commitment to quality, a dedication to tradition, and a willingness to innovate. It’s a reminder that behind every bottle of exquisite sake, there’s a story of hard work, passion, and a deep understanding of the brewing art.
