About the Japan Awasake Association
The Japan Awasake Association is an incorporated association established in November 2016 by and for Japanese breweries producing sparkling sake. The aim of the association is to constantly improve product quality, raise brand awareness, and expand to new markets. Only the products that comply with the strict association standards and pass our third-party quality control can receive the AWA SAKE certification. The association actively engages in various activities to position AWA SAKE as the new Japanese toasting sensation that makes the world say “Kampai”!
*AWA SAKE is a registered trademark of the Japan Awasake Association
Activities
1. Establishing & maintaining AWA SAKE product quality and brand image
Develop a certification process and maintain the highest quality standards.
Manage AWA SAKE product certification by developing individual serial No. stickers.
2. Knowledge sharing & resource management
Conduct AWA SAKE brewing seminars & group study sessions.
Position the brand & support business strategy & marketing efforts.
Develop an efficient material joint purchase system.
3. Co-marketing activities & joint promotional efforts
Design & manage AWA SAKE events.
Support press, public, and media relations.
Support global marketing & overseas business promotion activities.
History
Feb 2016 General Incorporated Association Awasake Association was established. Ami Miura
(CEO of ima, Inc),representative director
Nov 2016 A press conference for the inauguration of the Japan Awasake Association was held. Noriyoshi Nagai
(President of Nagai Sake Inc.) was nominated as the first Chairman of the Board of Directors
Mar 2017 The AWA SAKE certification program was introduced
Apr 2017 The 1st AWA SAKE certification ceremony was held
Oct 2017 AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink for Yokohama Triennale:
“Islands, Constellations & Galapagos event”
Jun 2018 Selected for “Japan Brand Development Assistance Programme (First term)”
by the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency
Oct 2018 The 2nd AWA SAKE certification ceremony was held
First visit to Champagne (France) and first international exhibition participation at
Salon du Sake in Paris AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the welcome reception of
Japan Week Turin (Italy) hosted by IFF:“International Friendship Foundation”
Dec 2018 AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink for the Emperor’s
Birthday Reception at the Consulate-General of Japan in Turin
Jun 2019 Selected for “Japan Brand Development Assistance Program (Second term)”
by the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency
AWA SAKE was selected to be served at the G20 official dinner and media booth
Jul 2019 Second visit to Champagne (France) and an
AWA SAKE tasting seminar was also held for the first time in Paris
Oct 2019 The 3rd AWA SAKE certification ceremony was held
“Thirty-six Views of Mt. Fuji”by Hokusai Katsushika Original Label Series was launched (14 brands)
AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the G20 Aichi-Nagoya
Foreign Ministers Meeting and Dinner
Nov 2019 AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the welcome reception of
Japan Week Athens (Greece), hosted by IFF:“International Friendship Foundation”
Jan 2020 Establishment of the Promotion Parliamentary Association of AWA SAKE
Feb 2020 AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the Emperor’s Birthday Reception held by the
Embassy of Japan in the U.S., in Australia, in Greece, in Luxembourg, in India, and the
Consulate General of Japan in Vladivostok (Russia)
May 2020 Selected as part of “2020 Japanese Sake Branding Promotion Project”by the National Tax Agency
Mar 2021 The 4th AWA SAKE certification and the first AWA SAKE ambassador
Appointment Ceremonies were held
May 2021 Selected by the National Tax Agency as part of their
“Subsidy for Japanese Alcoholic Beverages Overseas Development Support Project Expenses”
program (Subsidy for Branding and Sake Brewery Tourism)
Oct 2022 The 5th AWA SAKE Certification Ceremony and the AWA SAKE
Ambassador Appointment Ceremony were held
Feb 2023 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Japan in the United States, and the
Embassy of Japan in Malaysia have adopted AWA SAKE as the
toasting drink at the Emperor’s Birthday receptions
Apr 2023 Inclusion of AWA SAKE in the G7 Takasaki Digital and Technology Ministers’
Meeting (Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture)
May 2023 Adoption of AWA SAKE during the G7 Summit (Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture)
on the first day, including the Working Dinner,Media Center, and the meeting of
Ministry of Finance and Central Bank Governors (Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture)
Jun 2023 Inclusion of AWA SAKE in the G7 Transport Ministers’ Meeting (Shima City, Mie Prefecture)
and the Meeting of Ministers for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment
(Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture)
Jul 2023 Adoption of AWA SAKE at the Justice Affairs Diplomacy Ministerial Forum (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo)
Aug 2023 Conducted the 3rd Champagne (France) Visiting / Paris Tasting Event, and AWA SAKE Seminar
Nov 2023 The 6th AWA SAKE Certification Ceremony was held in Malaysia
Association Profile
Association Name:
Representative Director:
Address:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Japan Awasake Association
Noriyoshi Nagai, President of Nagai Sake Inc.
Placeo Aoyama Building 3F, 2-7-13 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 107-0061, Japan
+81 3-6383-1683
+81 3-6685-2539
info@awasake.or.jp
Board of Directors
Chairman Noriyoshi Nagai (Nagai Sake Inc., President & CEO)
Vice Chairman Kosuke Kuji (Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Vice Chairman Hideyuki Takizawa (Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Managing Director Tsushima Kitahara (Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Yohei Ito (Akita Seishu Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Jiro Nagumo (Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Haruo Okasora (Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Kensuke Shichida (Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Auditor
Toshiya Tone – Former Deputy Commissioner (Liquor Tax and Industry division)
of the National Tax Agency, Regional Commissioner of the Sendai Taxation Bureau,
Regional Commissioner of the Kanto Shinetsu Taxation Bureau
Takeaki Ishikawa – Advisor to the Brewing Society of Japan, Doctor of Agriculture
AWA SAKE Ambassador
In March of 2021, the Japan Awasake Association has developed their own AWA SAKE Ambassador program to make the finest gourmets around the world say: “Kampai”. Professionals with a broad “food culture” knowledge and a deep love for AWA SAKE were selected to work as Brand Ambassadors and help the association to raise awareness of AWA SAKE worldwide.
Xavier Thuizat (France)
Born in Beaune, Burgundy, and recognized as a young leading figure in the French sommelier world, Xavier has worked as a sommelier at Michelin 3-star restaurants such as Bernard Loiseau, Moulis, Pierre Garnier among others. After establishing the wine cellar he also became the chef sommelier at the renovated Paris Peninsula hotel. In the summer of 2017, he was named Chef Sommelier of the newly renovated Hotel Crillon in Paris. Since 2017 he is also the Chairman of the Jury of the Japanese Sake Competition “Kura Master” organized by French wine experts.
Philippe Jamesse (France)
After working as a chef sommelier at Château Lesclières, one of the leading 2-star restaurants in the Champagne region, he started his own business as a wine consultant in 2019. He has earned the reputation of being “the sommelier with the most sophisticated Champagne service”.
In collaboration with LEHMANN, a glass manufacturer in Marne (France), he has also developed a series of handmade wine glasses highly regarded for its elegant silhouette and known for its unique mouth touch & enhanced drinking experience designed to unveil aroma & flavor.
Shinya Tasaki (Japan)
Born in Tokyo. At the age of 19, he aspired to become a sommelier and spent three years in France. In 1983, he won the first prize at the “3rd Japan Sommelier Best Technique Award Competition,” and later in 1995, at the “8th World Best Sommelier Competition,” he became the first Japanese to win, earning the title of world champion. From 2010 to 2017, for seven years, he served as the President of the International Sommelier Association. Since 2016, he has been President of the Japan Sommelier Association. He is widely respected for his extensive activities in the fields of alcoholic beverages and food, garnering significant admiration from many professionals. In 1999, he received the Chevalier of the Order of Agricultural Merit of France. In 2011, he was awarded the Yellow Ribbon Medal of Honor.
Awards
2023
MIZUBASHO PUREKURA MASTER Sake Sparkling Category
Jury: Akita Seishu Co., Ltd. – Dewatsuru awasake Ashitae
Platinum: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Platinum: Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd. – Awasake sparkling TOYOKUNI
Platinum : Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd. – Kikuizumi Hitosuji Ray
Platinum: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai SPARKLING SAKE Shiro-Koji
Platinum: Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH
Platinum: Kitaya Co., Ltd. – Kitaya Sparkling Crystal
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai Label
Gold : Takizawa Shuzo Co., Ltd. – Kikuizumi Hitosuji
Gold: Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd. – Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA”
Gold: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Morino Kanade
Gold: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake Hakko
The Fine Sake Awards Premium Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Ninki Inc. – Ninki-ichi Awa Sake Sparkling DOUX NATURE
Gold: Nagai Sake Inc. – MIZUBASHO PURE
Gold: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai SPARKLING SAKE
International Wine Challenge
Gold: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Morino Kanade
Silver: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Sora no Irodori
Bronze: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Bronze: Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Dewazakura AWA SAKE
Bronze: Ninki Inc. – Ninki-ichi Awa Sake Sparkling
Bronze: Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd. – Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA”
Bronze: Kitaya Co., Ltd. – Kitaya Sparkling Crystal
Bronze: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake Hakko
2022
The Fine SAKE Awards Premium Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Gold: Ninki Inc. – Ninki-ichi Awa Sake Sparkling
Gold: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai SPARKLING SAKE
Feminalise World Wine Competition Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Dewazakura AWA SAKE
Gold: Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd. – Kikuizumi Hitosuji
Gold: Nagai Shuzo Co., Ltd. – The MIZUBASHO PURE 2009
Gold: Nagai Shuzo Co., Ltd. – MIzubasho Yukihotaka Awa Sake
Gold: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai SPARKLING SAKE
International Wine Challenge
Silver: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa sake Sparkling
Silver: Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Dewazakura AWA SAKE
Silver: Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Kaika AWA SAKE
Bronze: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai Label
Bronze: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd – Garyubai SPARKLING SAKE
Bronze: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Sora no Irodori
Bronze: Saito Shuzo Co., Ltd. – Eikun SPARKLING SAKE
Bronze: Kitaya Co., Ltd. – Kitaya Sparkling Crystal
Bronze: Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Tenzan Sparkling
Bronze: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake
Hakko KURA MASTER Sake Sparkling Category
Platinum: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Platinum: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Morinokanade
Platinum: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Hoshi no Kagayaki
Platinum: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake Hakko
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awasake Sparkling, Hokusai Label
Gold: Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Kaika AWA SAKE
Gold: Nagai Sake Inc. – MIZUBASHO PURE
2021
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Ninki-ichi Awasake Sparkling Junmai Daiginjo BRUT NATURE / Ninki Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kaika AWA SAKE / Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Feminalise World Wine Competition Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kaika AWA SAKE / Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
International Wine Challenge
Sparkling Trophy: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gunma Sparkling Trophy: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Saitama Sparkling Trophy: Kikuizumi Hitosuji Rose / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Shizuoka Sparkling Trophy: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
KURA MASTER Sake Sparkling Category
Jury・Platinum: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Platinum: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Platinum: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji Rose / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Gold: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kitaya Sparkling Crystal / Kitaya Co., Ltd.
2020
KURA MASTER Sparkling Standard Category
Jury・Platinum: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Platinum: Mori no Kanade / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Platinum: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Dewatsuru Sparkling Ashitahe / Akita Seishu Co., Ltd.
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Mutsuhassen Dry Sparkling / Hachinohe Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
International Wine Challenge
Trophy・Gold: Kitaya Sparkling Crystal / Kitaya Co., Ltd.
Silver: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Silver: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Silver: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Silver: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Silver：Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Silver：GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Bronze：MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Bronze: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Bronze: Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” / Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.
Bronze: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
International SAKE Challenge
Sparkling Sake Trophy: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Bronze: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
LONDON SAKE Challenge Platinum
CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
2019
SAKE COMPETITION Sparkling Sake Category
1st place: Dewatsuru Sparkling Ashitahe / Akita Seishu Co., Ltd.
Sliver: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Sliver: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Sliver: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
KURA MASTER Sparkling Standard Category
Platinum: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Mutsuhassen Dry Sparkling / Hachinohe Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Ninki-ichi Awasake Sparkling Junmai Daiginjo / Ninki Inc.
Gold: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji Rose / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” / Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Ninki-ichi Awasake Sparkling Junmai Daiginjo / Ninki Inc.
Grand Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Tenzan Sparkling / Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
2018
SAKE COMPETITION Sparkling Sake Category
1st place: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Sliver: Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” / Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.
Sliver: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Tenzan Sparkling / Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
International Wine Challenge
Sliver: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Bronze: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Bronze: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
2017
2017 SAKE COMPETITION Sparkling Sake Category
1st place: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
AWA SAKE Certification
The Japan Awasake Association has established strict quality standards for product development. Together with an external organization specialized in quality auditing,we regularly conduct product inspections to ensure compliance with our certification standards. Only the products that match all the criteria are allowed to be called “AWA SAKE”. To be certified, brands must be a member of the Japan Awasake Association. Please contact us for more information and to become a member.
Product Development Criteria
1. Product must be Japanese sake made only from rice*¹, kome-koji (malted rice), and water
2. 100% domestically produced rice classified in 3rd class or higher by the Agricultural Produce Inspection Law must be used as raw material
3. Only the carbon dioxide from natural fermentation during brewing must be retained** and not added manually
4. The outward appearance should be clear & transparent and a single stream of bubbles should appear when poured into a container once uncorked
5. The alcohol level should be at least 10% or higher 6. The gas pressure must be at least 3.5 bar*² (0.35 megapascal) at 20ºC
*1 No restrictions on the purity of the rice or the milling ratio
*2 The secondary fermentation within the regulations can take place in a bottle or in a tank
Quality standards
Aroma and quality shall remain the same at room temperature for at least three months, and pasteurization shall also be performed. Artificial gas, except the carbon dioxide used in pipes and containers for gas displacement purposes, is not allowed.
Certification Process
1. Inspection of equipment, brewing process, and raw material
Inspection of equipment, brewing processes, and raw materials will be conducted in writing to ensure that they meet the certification standards. (In some cases an on-site inspection will also be conducted). Certification inspections are conducted twice a year, and even when a product passed the inspection the previous year, it will undergo certification inspections again the following year.
2. Inspection by external institutions
Two external institutions specialized in quality auditing will conduct inspections to ensure that the ingredients meet our certification standards. Listed below are the main items which are inspected:
・Gas pressure measurement
・Sake spoilage lactic acid bacteria test
・Alcohol content measurement
・Carbon dioxide composition measurement – To ensure that carbon dioxide has not been artificially added
3. Awarding of certificate
Only products that passed all inspection items will be officially certified as AWA SAKE. A certification will be awarded to the certified products from the Japan Awasake Associa
About Association Members
Discover our association brewery members from all regions of Japan and their unique AWA SAKE products.
The Japan Awasake Association Official YouTube Channel
About the Japan Awasake Association
The Japan Awasake Association is an incorporated association established in November 2016 by and for Japanese breweries producing sparkling sake. The aim of the association is to constantly improve product quality, raise brand awareness, and expand to new markets. Only the products that comply with the strict association standards and pass our third-party quality control can receive the AWA SAKE certification. The association actively engages in various activities to position AWA SAKE as
“the new Japanese toasting sensation that makes the world say “Kampai”!
*AWA SAKE is a registered trademark of the Japan Awasake Association
Activities
1. Establishing & maintaining AWA SAKE product quality and brand image
Develop a certification process and maintain the highest quality standards.
Manage AWA SAKE product certification by developing individual serial No. stickers.
2. Knowledge sharing & resource management
Conduct AWA SAKE brewing seminars & group study sessions.
Position the brand & support business strategy & marketing efforts.
Develop an efficient material joint purchase system.
3. Co-marketing activities & joint promotional efforts
Design & manage AWA SAKE events.
Support press, public, and media relations.
Support global marketing & overseas business promotion activities.
History
February 2016
General Incorporated Association Awasake Association was established. Ami Miura (CEO of ima, Inc), representative director
November 2016
A press conference for the inauguration of the Japan Awasake Association was held
Noriyoshi Nagai (President of Nagai Sake Inc.) was nominated as the first Chairman of the Board of Directors
March 2017
The AWA SAKE certification program was introduced
April 2017
The 1st AWA SAKE certification ceremony was held
October 2017
AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink for Yokohama Triennale: “Islands, Constellations & Galapagos event”
June 2018
Selected for “Japan Brand Development Assistance Programme (First term)” by the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency
October 2018
The 2nd AWA SAKE certification ceremony was held
First visit to Champagne (France) and first international exhibition participation at Salon du Sake in Paris AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the welcome reception of Japan Week Turin (Italy) hosted by IFF: “International Friendship Foundation”
December 2018
AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink for the Emperor’s Birthday Reception at the Consulate-General of Japan in Turin
June 2019
Selected for “Japan Brand Development Assistance Program (Second term)” by the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency
AWA SAKE was selected to be served at the G20 official dinner and media booth
July 2019
Second visit to Champagne (France) and an AWA SAKE tasting seminar was also held for the first time in Paris
October 2019
The 3rd AWA SAKE certification ceremony was held
“Thirty-six Views of Mt. Fuji” by Hokusai Katsushika Original Label Series was launched (14 brands)
AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the G20
Aichi-Nagoya Foreign Ministers Meeting and Dinner
November 2019
AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the welcome reception of Japan Week Athens (Greece),hosted by IFF: “International Friendship Foundation”
January 2020
Establishment of the Promotion Parliamentary Association of
AWA SAKE
February 2020
AWA SAKE was selected as the toasting drink at the Emperor’s Birthday Reception held by the Embassy of Japan in the U.S., in Australia, in Greece, in Luxembourg, in India, and the Consulate General of Japan in Vladivostok (Russia)
May 2020
Selected as part of “2020 Japanese Sake Branding Promotion Project” by the National Tax Agency
March 2021
The 4th AWA SAKE certification and the first AWA SAKE Ambassador Appointment Ceremonies were held
May 2021
Selected by the National Tax Agency as part of their “Subsidy for Japanese Alcoholic Beverages Overseas Development Support Project Expenses” program (Subsidy for Branding and Sake Brewery Tourism)
October 2022
The 5th AWA SAKE Certification Ceremony and the AWA SAKE Ambassador Appointment Ceremony were held
February 2023
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Japan in the United States, and the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia have adopted AWA SAKE as the toasting drink at the Emperor’s Birthday receptions
April 2023
Inclusion of AWA SAKE in the G7 Takasaki Digital and Technology Ministers’ Meeting (Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture)
May 2023
Adoption of AWA SAKE during the G7 Summit (Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture) on the first day, including the Working Dinner, Media Center, and the meeting of Ministry of Finance and Central Bank Governors (Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture)
June 2023
Inclusion of AWA SAKE in the G7 Transport Ministers’ Meeting (Shima City, Mie Prefecture) and the Meeting of Ministers for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture)
July 2023
Adoption of AWA SAKE at the Justice Affairs Diplomacy Ministerial Forum (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo)
August 2023
Conducted the 3rd Champagne (France) Visiting / Paris Tasting Event, and AWA SAKE Seminar
November 2023
The 6th AWA SAKE Certification Ceremony was held in Malaysia
Association Profile
Association Name
Japan Awasake Association
Representative Director
Noriyoshi Nagai, President of Nagai Sake Inc.
Address
Placeo Aoyama Building 3F, 2-7-13 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0061, Japan
Phone
03-6383-1683
FAX
03-6685-2539
Email
info@awasake.or.jp
Board of Directors
Chairman Noriyoshi Nagai
(Nagai Sake Inc., President & CEO)
Vice Chairman Kosuke Kuji
(Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Vice Chairman Hideyuki Takizawa
(Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Managing Director Tsushima Kitahara
(Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Yohei Ito
(Akita Seishu Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Jiro Nagumo
(Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.,
President & CEO)
Director Haruo Okasora
(Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Director Kensuke Shichida
(Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., President & CEO)
Auditor
Toshiya Tone
Former Deputy Commissioner (Liquor Tax and Industry division)
of the National Tax Agency, Regional Commissioner of the Sendai Taxation Bureau,
Regional Commissioner of the Kanto Shinetsu Taxation Bureau
Takeaki Ishikawa
Advisor to the Brewing Society of Japan, Doctor of Agriculture
AWA SAKE Ambassador
In March of 2021, the Japan Awasake Association has developed their own AWA SAKE Ambassador program to make the finest gourmets around the world say: “Kampai”. Professionals with a broad “food culture” knowledge and a deep love for AWA SAKE were selected to work as Brand Ambassadors and help the association to raise awareness of AWA SAKE worldwide.
Xavier Thuizat (France)
Born in Beaune, Burgundy, and recognized as a young leading figure in the French sommelier world, Xavier has worked as a sommelier at Michelin 3-star restaurants such as Bernard Loiseau, Moulis, Pierre Garnier among others. After establishing the wine cellar he also became the chef sommelier at the renovated Paris Peninsula hotel. In the summer of 2017, he was named Chef Sommelier of the newly renovated Hotel Crillon in Paris. Since 2017 he is also the Chairman of the Jury of the Japanese Sake Competition “Kura Master” organized by French wine experts.
Philippe Jamesse (France)
After working as a chef sommelier at Château Lesclières, one of the leading 2-star restaurants in the Champagne region, he started his own business as a wine consultant in 2019. He has earned the reputation of being “the sommelier with the most sophisticated Champagne service”. In collaboration with LEHMANN, a glass manufacturer in Marne (France), he has also developed a series of handmade wine glasses highly regarded for its elegant silhouette and known for its unique mouth touch & enhanced drinking experience designed to unveil aroma & flavor.
Shinya Tasaki (Japan)
Born in Tokyo. At the age of 19, he aspired to become a sommelier and spent three years in France. In 1983, he won the first prize at the “3rd Japan Sommelier Best Technique Award Competition,” and later in 1995, at the “8th World Best Sommelier Competition,” he became the first Japanese to win, earning the title of world champion. From 2010 to 2017, for seven years, he served as the President of the International Sommelier Association. Since 2016, he has been President of the Japan Sommelier Association. He is widely respected for his extensive activities in the fields of alcoholic beverages and food, garnering significant admiration from many professionals. In 1999, he received the Chevalier of the Order of Agricultural Merit of France. In 2011, he was awarded the Yellow Ribbon Medal of Honor.
History
2023
KURA MASTER Sake Sparkling Category
Jury: Akita Seishu Co., Ltd. – Dewatsuru awasake Ashitae
Platinum: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Platinum: Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd. – Awasake sparkling Toyokuni
Platinum : Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd. – Kikuizumi Hitosuji Ray
Platinum: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai Sparkling Shiro-Koji
Platinum: Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Chiyomusubi Sorah
Platinum: Kitaya Co., Ltd. – Kitaya Sparkling Crystal
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai Label
Gold : Takizawa Shuzo Co., Ltd. – Kikuizumi Hitosuji
Gold: Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd. – Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA”
Gold: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Morino Kanade
Gold: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake Hakko
The Fine Sake Awards Premium Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Ninki Inc. – Ninki-ichi Awa Sake Sparkling Doux Nature
Gold: Nagai Sake Inc. – Mizubasho Pure
Gold: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai Sparkling Sake
International Wine Challenge
Gold: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Morino Kanade
Silver: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Sora no Irodori
Bronze: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Bronze: Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Dewazakura AWA SAKE
Bronze: Ninki Inc. – Ninki-ichi Awa Sake Sparkling
Bronze: Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd. – Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA”
Bronze: Kitaya Co., Ltd. – Kitaya Sparkling Crystal
Bronze: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake Hakko
2022
The Fine SAKE Awards Premium Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Gold: Ninki Inc. – Ninki-ichi Awa Sake Sparkling
Gold: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai Sparkling Sake
Feminalise World Wine Competition Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Dewazakura AWA SAKE
Gold: Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd. – Kikuizumi Hitosuji
Gold: Nagai Shuzo Co., Ltd. – The Mizubasho Pure2009
Gold: Nagai Shuzo Co., Ltd. – MIzubasho Yukihotaka Awa Sake
Gold: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. – Garyubai Sparkling Sake
International Wine Challenge
Silver: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa sake Sparkling
Silver: Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Dewazakura AWA SAKE
Silver: Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Kaika AWA SAKE
Bronze: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai Label
Bronze: Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd – Garyubai Sparkling Sake
Bronze: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Sora no Irodori
Bronze: Saito Shuzo Co., Ltd. – Eikun Sparkling Sake
Bronze: Kitaya Co., Ltd. – Kitaya Sparkling Crystal
Bronze: Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Tenzan Sparkling
Bronze: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake
Hakko KURA MASTER Sake Sparkling Category
Platinum: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling
Platinum: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Morinokanade
Platinum: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. – Shichiken Hoshi no Kagayaki
Platinum: Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd. – Yatsushika awa sake Hakko
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd. – Nanbu Bijin Awasake Sparkling, Hokusai Label
Gold: Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. – Kaika AWA SAKE
Gold: Nagai Sake Inc. – Mizubasho Pure
2021
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Ninki-ichi Awasake Sparkling Junmai Daiginjo BRUT NATURE / Ninki Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kaika AWA SAKE / Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Feminalise World Wine Competition Sparkling Sake Category
Gold: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kaika AWA SAKE / Daiichi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
International Wine Challenge
Sparkling Trophy: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gunma Sparkling Trophy: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc. Saitama Sparkling Trophy: Kikuizumi Hitosuji Rose / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd. Shizuoka Sparkling Trophy: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd. Gold: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
KURA MASTER Sake Sparkling Category
Jury・Platinum: GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Platinum: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Platinum: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji Rose / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Gold: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kitaya Sparkling Crystal / Kitaya Co., Ltd.
2020
KURA MASTER Sparkling Standard Category
Jury・Platinum: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Platinum: Mori no Kanade / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Platinum: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Dewatsuru Sparkling Ashitahe / Akita Seishu Co., Ltd.
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Mutsuhassen Dry Sparkling / Hachinohe Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
International Wine Challenge
Trophy・Gold: Kitaya Sparkling Crystal / Kitaya Co., Ltd.
Silver: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Silver: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling Hokusai / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Silver: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Silver: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Silver：Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Silver：GARYUBAI SPARKLING SAKE / Sanwa Brewery Co., Ltd.
Bronze：MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Bronze: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Bronze: Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” / Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.
Bronze: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
International SAKE Challenge
Sparkling Sake Trophy: Dewazakura AWA SAKE / Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Bronze: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
LONDON SAKE Challenge Platinum CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH
Chiyomusubi
Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
2019
SAKE COMPETITION Sparkling Sake Category
1st place: Dewatsuru Sparkling Ashitahe / Akita Seishu Co., Ltd.
Sliver: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Sliver: Yatsushika awa sake Hakkou / Yatsushika Brewery Co., Ltd.
Sliver: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
KURA MASTER Sparkling Standard Category
Platinum: Hoshi no Kagayaki / Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Mutsuhassen Dry Sparkling / Hachinohe Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: Ninki-ichi Awasake Sparkling Junmai Daiginjo / Ninki Inc.
Gold: AWASAKE SPARKLING TOYOKUNI / Toyokuni Shuzo Co., Ltd.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Kikuizumi Hitosuji Rose / Takizawa Brewing Co., Ltd.
Gold: Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” / Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Ninki-ichi Awasake Sparkling Junmai Daiginjo / Ninki Inc.
Grand Gold: MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Awa Sake / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: THE MIZUBASHO PURE 2009 / Nagai Sake Inc.
Gold: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH / Chiyomusubi Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Tenzan Sparkling / Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
2018
SAKE COMPETITION Sparkling Sake Category
1st place: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Sliver: Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” / Hakkaisan Brewery Co., Ltd.
Sliver: MIZUBASHO PURE / Nagai Sake Inc.
The Fine Sake Awards Japan Sparkling SAKE Category
Grand Gold: Tenzan Sparkling / Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Gold: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
International Wine Challenge
Sliver: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
Bronze: MIZUBASHO PURE Nagai Sake Inc.
Bronze: CHIYOMUSUBI SORAH Chiyomusubi
Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
2017
2017 SAKE COMPETITION Sparkling Sake Category
1st place: Nanbu Bijin Awa Sake Sparkling / Nanbu Bijin Co., Ltd.
AWA SAKE Certification
The Japan Awasake Association has established strict quality standards for product development. Together with an external organization specialized in quality auditing, we regularly conduct product inspections to ensure compliance with our certification standards. Only the products that match all the criteria are allowed to be called “AWA SAKE”. To be certified, brands must be a member of the Japan Awasake Association. Please contact us for more information and to become a member.
Product Development Criteria
1. Product must be Japanese sake made only from rice*, kome-koji (malted rice), and water
2. 100% domestically produced rice classified in 3rd class or higher by the Agricultural Produce Inspection Law must be used as raw material
3. Only the carbon dioxide from natural fermentation during brewing must be retained** and not added manually
4. The outward appearance should be clear & transparent and a single stream of bubbles should appear when poured into a container once uncorked
5. The alcohol level should be at least 10% or higher
6. The gas pressure must be at least 3.5 bar*2 (0.35 megapascal) at 20°C
*1 No restrictions on the purity of the rice or the milling ratio
*2 The secondary fermentation within the regulations can take place in a bottle or in a tank
Quality standards
Aroma and quality shall remain the same at room temperature for at least three months, and pasteurization shall also be performed. Artificial gas, except the carbon dioxide used in pipes and containers for gas displacement purposes, is not allowed.
Certification Process
1. Inspection of equipment, brewing process, and raw material
Inspection of equipment, brewing processes, and raw materials will be conducted in writing to ensure that they meet the certification standards. (In some cases an on-site inspection will also be conducted). Certification inspections are conducted twice a year, and even when a product passed the inspection the previous year, it will undergo certification inspections again the following year.
2. Inspection by external institutions Two external institutions specialized in quality auditing will conduct inspections to ensure that the ingredients meet our certification standards.
Listed below are the main items which are inspected:
・Gas pressure measurement
・Sake spoilage lactic acid bacteria test
・Alcohol content measurement
・Carbon dioxide composition measurement – To ensure that carbon dioxide has not been artificially added
3. Awarding of certificate
Only products that passed all inspection items will be officially certified as AWA SAKE. A certification will be awarded to the certified products from the Japan Awasake Association.
About Association Members
Discover our association brewery members from all regions of Japan and their unique
AWA SAKE products.
The Japan Awasake Association
Official YouTube Channel