[Complete Guide] What Is the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai? Japan’s Top Sake Competition

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Introduction

What Is the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai?

  • Only newly brewed sake from the current year is eligible.
  • Entries must be unprocessed ginjo-shu with a minimum acidity level of 0.8.
  • Judging combines expert tasting (sensory evaluation) and chemical analysis.

What Types of Sake Are Entered?

  • Beautiful ginjo aromas (like isoamyl acetate, ethyl caproate).
  • Clear, balanced flavor profiles.
  • Attractive appearance and clarity.

Judging Process: Combining Science and Expert Tasting

  • Regional evaluation.
  • Multiple expert judges assess aroma, flavor, appearance.
  • Selected entries are re-evaluated by a national expert panel.
  • Chemical analyses (alcohol content, acidity, amino acid levels) are included.

Gold Award Sake: A Mark of Quality and Skill

Past Award-Winning Breweries and Notable Brands

  • Juyondai 十四代 (Takagi Shuzo, Yamagata)
  • Dassai 獺祭 (Asahi Shuzo, Yamaguchi)
  • Toyo Bijin 東洋美人 (Sumikawa Shuzojo, Yamaguchi)
  • Nanbu Bijin 南部美人 (Nanbu Bijin, Iwate)
  • Kamoshibito Kuheiji 醸し人九平次 (Banjo Jozo, Aichi)

(Note: Participation varies each year by brewery decision.)

Can the Public Participate? | Exhibitions and Limited Sales

Conclusion

The Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai is more than just a competition—
it’s a showcase of Japan’s finest sake craftsmanship and innovation.

  • Discover new up-and-coming breweries.
  • Understand current trends in sake making.
  • Find the finest sakes for special occasions.

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