Kikuhime

Kikuhime, located in Tsurugi, Hakusan City, is a prestigious brewery that has established a firm position in the sake industry as a leading authority on 'Yamahai-style' brewing. In the 1970s, they became a pioneer by releasing the industry's first Junmai sake explicitly labeled as 'Yamahai-shikomi,' an achievement known for redefining the value of traditional brewing methods in the modern era.
Their signature Yamahai method allows natural lactic acid bacteria and yeast to grow together slowly, creating a powerful flavor profile where acidity and umami are highly concentrated. They strictly use only the highest-grade 'Yamada Nishiki' rice grown in the special 'A-A' district of Yokawa, Hyogo Prefecture, and insist on aging the sake for one to two years before shipment. Celebrated as the pinnacle of 'manly sake' (otoko-zake) for its robust and mellow flavor, Kikuhime's excellence is internationally recognized—including winning the top trophy at London's IWC. It is a supreme brewery that continues to pursue the true essence of Japanese sake.