USE-Represented Sake Brands Receive Multiple Awards at International Competitions in 2026
The results of the major international sake competitions in 2026 have been announced. Sake brands represented by USE have received Gold Awards, Platinum Awards, and Gold Medals at Kura Master in France, the International Wine Challenge (IWC), and the Annual Japan Sake Awards, demonstrating the craftsmanship of Japanese brewers and world-class quality.
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Gangi Junmai Daiginjo "SEKIREI": Double International Gold Recognition
Yamaguchi Prefecture · Yaoshin Shuzo
Kura Master 2026 Gold Award
IWC 2026 Gold Medal
Brewed with Yamada Nishiki rice, this sake displays elegant fruit aromas and layered umami, combining rich aromatics with a clean finish. It is one of Gangi's flagship Junmai Daiginjo expressions.
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Amanoto Junmai Daiginjo 35: Refined Flavor Crafted with Expertise
Akita Prefecture · Asamai Shuzo
Kura Master 2026 Gold Award
Delicate and elegant on the nose, this sake beautifully expresses the character of Akita-grown sake rice and the flavors developed through long-term low-temperature fermentation. It is a classic expression of Amanoto's premium sake lineup.
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Kuramoto Yuzu Liqueur: Double Honors at Kura Master 2026
Ehime Prefecture · Shusen Eiko
Kura Master 2026 Platinum Award – Citrus Liqueur Category
Kura Master 2026 Excellent Award
Made with Japanese yuzu, this liqueur features bright citrus aromas and a refreshing balance of sweetness and acidity. It can be enjoyed on its own, mixed with sparkling water, or paired with desserts, and is a fruit liqueur well-loved by consumers in Taiwan.
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Sakehitosuji Bangai: An Emerging Sake Awarded Its First International Gold Medal
Okayama Prefecture · Toshimori Sake Brewery
IWC 2026 Gold Medal
Created with an innovative approach that differs from traditional sake styles, this sake combines individuality and balance, demonstrating Sakehitosuji's creativity and innovation in brewing. It is one of this year's noteworthy emerging sake selections.
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Kinoene Junmai Daiginjo Yamada Nishiki 50: An Elegant Balance of Fruit and Umami
Chiba Prefecture · Iinuma Honke
IWC 2026 Gold Medal
Brewed using Yamada Nishiki rice from Hyogo's Special A growing district, this sake offers a soft and refined texture while achieving an elegant balance between fruit aromas and rice-derived umami. It is one of Kinoene's most acclaimed expressions in recent years.
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Fukuju Daiginjo Gold: International Recognition of Brewing Excellence
Hyogo Prefecture · Kobe Shushinkan
IWC 2026 Gold Medal
Fukuju is an internationally recognized sake brand. This latest award further demonstrates the brewery's consistent and outstanding brewing excellence.
Tatsuriki Daiginjo YK35：A Masterpiece Crafted with Special A Yamada Nishiki
Hyogo Prefecture · Honda Shoten
IWC 2026 Gold Medal
Made with Yamada Nishiki rice from a Special A growing district, this sake is known for its elegant fruit aromas, refined texture, and layered character. It is one of Tatsuriki's most representative premium expressions and is highly favored for gifting and collecting.
Other Award-Winning Selections
From entry-level to premium sake, these award-winning selections combine locally grown sake rice with traditional brewing techniques, presenting refined and layered flavors.
