While sake is a cherished part of Japanese culture, these extraordinary brews transcend the ordinary, offering a tantalizing journey through history, craftsmanship, and flavor. Imagine sipping a sake infused with the rarest of ingredients or one crafted with techniques dating back centuries.
In this blog, we invite you to savor the allure of the most expensive sakes, a realm where tradition meets extravagance, where each bottle tells a story of exclusivity, refinement, and the pursuit of perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned sake enthusiast or a curious newcomer, join us on a voyage that will awaken your senses and leave you with a thirst for exploring the lavish world of sake like never before.
7. Kuromatsu
Brand: Kenbishi
Category: Honjozo
Alcohol: 17.0%
Image source: Binny’s Beverage
One of the defining characteristics of Kuromatsu is its graceful balance. With an alcohol content of 17.0%, it strikes an elegant equilibrium between the purity of the rice and the gentle influence of the added alcohol. This results in a smooth and harmonious taste that delights the palate with subtle sweetness, a hint of umami, and a clean finish.
Kuromatsu is made using a method that upholds centuries-old brewing techniques. The rice used is carefully polished to remove the outer layers, leaving behind the purest core, which is then fermented with yeast and a small amount of distilled alcohol. This meticulous process results in a sake that is a testament to the craft’s time-honored tradition, evoking the essence of Japan’s sake culture.
Did You Know?
The name “Kuromatsu” translates to “Black Pine,” a nod to the picturesque black pine trees that grace the Kenbishi brewery, further exemplifying the brand’s connection to nature and tradition.
6. Sake Plus
Brand: Ichinokura
Category: Futsushu
Alcohol: 17.0%
Image source: International Wine Challenge
“Sake Plus” by Ichinokura is a noteworthy addition to the diverse world of Japanese sake. This particular sake, classified as a Futsushu, is priced at $58 and boasts an alcohol content of 17.0%. While Futsushu may not be as renowned as other premium sake categories, Sake Plus has its own distinct qualities that make it an intriguing choice for sake enthusiasts.
It offers a bridge between the world of everyday sake and premium options. It is a perfect introduction for those new to sake, and its mild, well-rounded taste can also appeal to seasoned enthusiasts. The name “Sake Plus” implies that it goes beyond the ordinary, offering an elevated experience within the Futsushu category.
Did You Know?
Futsushu, often referred to as “table sake,” is known for its approachable and easy-drinking nature.
5. Ginjo Nama Genshu Black
Brand: Narutotai
Category: Ginjo
Alcohol: 19.0%
Image source: Fulamingo
Ginjo Nama Genshu Black, crafted by the renowned Narutotai brewery, is an exquisite representation of the Ginjo category in the world of sake. One of the most striking characteristics of Ginjo Nama Genshu Black is its boldness and complexity.
The Ginjo classification is known for its delicate and fragrant nature, and Ginjo Nama Genshu Black elevates this further by being undiluted (Genshu) and unpasteurized (Nama), preserving its vibrant and unadulterated flavors. It offers a rich bouquet of fruity and floral notes, which unfold on the palate with a delightful interplay of flavors, leaving a lingering, satisfying finish.
Did You Know?
Narutotai, the brand behind this exceptional sake, is renowned for its commitment to traditional brewing techniques.
4. AWA Sparkling
Brand: Nanbu Bijin
Category: Junmai Ginjo
Alcohol: 14.0%
Image source: SakeOne
One of the most remarkable characteristics of AWA Sparkling is its effervescent nature. While sake is typically still, this sparkling variant offers a delightful twist with its effervescence, akin to that of sparkling wines. It presents a gentle and refreshing mouthfeel, making it a unique and enticing option for those seeking sake with a touch of elegance.
This sake is not only a delightful standalone drink but also pairs exquisitely with a range of dishes. Its crisp and effervescent character makes it a fantastic companion for various cuisines, from Japanese to international fare.
Did You Know?
Nanbu Bijin, which translates to “Beautiful Woman of the North,” was founded in 1902. With a history spanning over a century, the brewery has accumulated extensive experience and expertise in sake production.
3. Ancient Treasure
Brand: Kanbara
Category: Junmai
Alcohol: 17.2%
Image source: Pourtal
Ancient Treasure by Kanbara is a distinguished Junmai sake with a price tag of $108 and an alcohol content of 17.2%. This premium sake, as its name suggests, is a treasure trove of tradition, taste, and history.
Ancient Treasure is a Junmai sake, meticulously brewed from rice, water, yeast, and koji, devoid of any addition of distilled alcohol. This unique approach results in a rich, multifaceted flavor profile, characterized by its full-bodied nature and a subtle umami undertone. It’s an excellent choice for those who seek sake with depth and character, making it one of the standout attributes of this exceptional brew.
Did You Know?
Kanbara has been producing sake for over 300 years, and “Ancient Treasure” reflects their dedication to preserving the heritage and craft of sake brewing.
2. Kachou Gesseki Morning Flower, Evening Moon
Brand: Yuki no Bosha
Category: Daiginjo
Alcohol: 17.0%
Image source: Tippsy Sake
Yuki no Bosha, the brand behind this exceptional sake, is known for its unwavering commitment to quality. The brewery is situated in a region with pristine natural water sources, which play a vital role in the sake’s pristine taste. They adhere to traditional brewing methods while also embracing modern innovations to create a product that stands as a testament to their dedication.
One of the defining characteristics of Kachou Gesseki is its unparalleled elegance. As a Daiginjo sake, it is crafted with the utmost care, using the finest polished rice, water, yeast, and koji. The result is a sake of remarkable purity and refinement, offering a delicate and floral flavor profile with a hint of fruitiness. It embodies the essence of Daiginjo, which is celebrated for its complexity and grace.
Did You Know?
The name “Morning Flower, Evening Moon” invokes the imagery of the changing beauty of nature, aligning perfectly with the sake’s delicate and evolving flavor profile.
1. Komyo Dewasansan
Brand: Tatenokawa
Category: Junmai Daiginjo
Alcohol: 15.0%
Image source: Sakenomy
At an astonishing $2600, Komyo Dewasansan stands as the crowning jewel in the illustrious collection of Tippy Sake. As the most expensive sake in this distinguished lineup, Komyo Dewasansan is a testament to the opulence and artistry that can be found in the world of sake.
Komyo Dewasansan is known for its unparalleled purity, crafted from the finest polished rice, water, yeast, and koji, representing the essence of Junmai Daiginjo. It offers a harmonious blend of floral and fruity notes with a velvety texture. The meticulous brewing process involves using only the heart of the sake rice, resulting in an exceptionally refined and well-balanced sake.
Did You Know?
This sake is not mass-produced; instead, it is meticulously crafted in small quantities, adding to its rarity and desirability among collectors and connoisseurs.
