
目次
Introduction
Among sake enthusiasts, one of the most anticipated events each year is the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai“全国新酒鑑評会” (National New Sake Appraisal).
This prestigious competition gathers the finest new brews from sake breweries across Japan, where they are evaluated based on aroma, flavor, craftsmanship, and overall quality.
When you see a sake labeled “Gold Award Winner,” it’s often referring to an honor from this competition.
In this article, we’ll clearly explain the history, judging process, and significance of the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai.
What Is the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai?
The Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai, Japan’s national sake appraisal, started in 1911 and is now co-hosted by the National Research Institute of Brewing and the Japan Sake Brewers Association.
Key Features:
- 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.
This event serves as an official platform to evaluate the technical prowess of sake breweries nationwide.
What Types of Sake Are Entered?
Breweries submit special contest brews made specifically for this competition—distinct from their standard commercial offerings.
Key judging points:
- Beautiful ginjo aromas (like isoamyl acetate, ethyl caproate).
- Clear, balanced flavor profiles.
- Attractive appearance and clarity.
In short, the sake submitted is crafted to be the brewery’s “masterpiece.”
Judging Process: Combining Science and Expert Tasting
The judging unfolds in two stages:
First Screening (Preliminary Round)
- Regional evaluation.
- Multiple expert judges assess aroma, flavor, appearance.
Final Screening (Main Judging)
- Selected entries are re-evaluated by a national expert panel.
- Chemical analyses (alcohol content, acidity, amino acid levels) are included.
Only about 30% of entries achieve the prestigious Gold Award, making it an exceptionally high honor.
Gold Award Sake: A Mark of Quality and Skill

Winning Gold at the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai proves a brewery’s technical excellence and sake quality.
Especially for smaller or regional breweries, this award can greatly enhance their reputation and consumer trust.
Today, many breweries proudly label their bottles with their Gold Award wins, helping customers easily identify top-quality sake.
Past Award-Winning Breweries and Notable Brands

Some famous brands that have consistently excelled include:
- 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

While the judging sessions are private, after the results are announced, award-winning sake exhibitions and special sales events are often held.
You can also find “Gold Award Sake Tasting Events” in major cities—a must for sake fans!
Conclusion
The Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai is more than just a competition—
it’s a showcase of Japan’s finest sake craftsmanship and innovation.
By following the results, you can:
- Discover new up-and-coming breweries.
- Understand current trends in sake making.
- Find the finest sakes for special occasions.
If you truly want to appreciate the best that Japanese sake has to offer, keeping an eye on the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai is essential!
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