Best of the best: Platinum awards at the Kura Master in Paris

The Kura Master competition has been held in Paris since 2017, where sake, shochu and, more recently, umeshu are awarded prizes. Kura Master has quickly made a name for itself and is considered a renowned competition, not least in Japan. This year, 1381 products were entered in the sake category alone. This is no wonder, as the jury is considered to be particularly competent and is made up of top sommeliers, bartenders, patissiers and other people from prestigious restaurants, hotels and cooking schools in France.

Three of our products have received the highest accolade and secured a platinum medal, namely the Mizutoriki Kura No Han 44 Junmai Daiginjo Sake and the Kofukuro Shochu. Our Kaga Umeshu also won first place in the "Gastronomy Alliance" competition, which rewards the drink with the best combination potential.

Kofukuro Shochu

Kofukuro Shochu is made from roasted barley and roasted barley koji (mugi shochu). This is unique in this form, and you can taste it. Manufacturer Kenjou Co. Ltd has patented its special production method. The Kofukuro has the finest notes of coffee and chocolate, paired with light roasted aromas. A shochu that delights with every sip. 

Mizutoriki Kura No Hana 44 Junmai Daiginjo Sake

The Mizutoriki Kura No Hana 44 Junmai Daiginjo Sake from Kakuboshi is a complex Junmai Daiginjo Sake with a polish of 44%. It scores with great fruity notes, a beautiful sweetness and a creamy texture. A fine umami taste and a full body round off this delicious sake. It is made using 100 percent local Kura no Hana rice. Only breweries from Miyagi Prefecture are allowed to use this rice variety.

Kaga Umeshu

Kaga Umeshu from Manzairaku Sake Kura is one of Japan's most frequently awarded umeshus. It has an intense fruity aroma and a refreshing, clear taste. Only benisashi ume is used, which is rich in amino acids and minerals and has a lovely umami flavor. It is produced in Ishikawa Prefecture.