Discover the World of Sake Yeast: 3 Unique Picks
Hello! I’m Seo, your Sake Diploma guide for May.
When it comes to the essential elements of sake, most people think of rice and water — but yeast is just as important.
While “Kyokai yeast” (distributed by the Brewing Society of Japan) is widely used, there are also many unique yeasts developed locally across Japan, including those derived from flowers and other natural sources.
In this feature, we introduce three distinctive sake selections made with such unique yeasts.
▶ Highlights
- Yeast that travelled through space and the deep sea
- Lavender yeast representing its local region
- A sake with a wine-like character
(1) TOSA Space & Deep Sea Tokubetsu Junmai “Sora to Umi”
Shipping: Japan, Australia, Taiwan
Yeast: Space & Deep Sea Yeast (AA41 / AC17)
Rice: Gin-no-Yume (derived from rice seeds that travelled in space)
A miraculous yeast shaped by space and the deep sea
After a journey through space, the yeast was sent to a depth of 6,200 metres in the ocean.It survived these extreme conditions, with a survival rate said to be just 1 in 300 million.
A truly romantic expression of “sky and sea”.
Despite its extraordinary story, the flavour is light and refreshing, with a gentle sweetness and a clean finish — ideal as a food-friendly sake.
Brewery Information
Takagi Shuzo Co., Ltd. (Konan City, Kochi Prefecture / Founded 1884)
Known for its flagship brands “Toyo no Ume” and “Tosa Kinzo”, the brewery uses domestically grown rice and remains deeply rooted in the local community. Its quality has also been recognised in international sake competitions.
(2) Okushimizu Junmai Ginjo Genshu “Misato Sekka”
Shipping: Japan, Australia, Taiwan
Yeast: Lavender yeast
Rice: Misato Nishiki
Crafted with yeast derived from white lavender
“Misato Sekka” takes its name from the rare white lavender that blooms in Misato Town, Akita.
This sake is brewed using natural yeast extracted from those flowers. The brewing water comes from the Rokugo Springs, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Exquisite Waters.
The result is a well-balanced sake with a clean, smooth texture and a gentle expression of rice umami.
Brewery Information
Takahashi Shuzoten Co., Ltd. (Misato Town, Akita Prefecture / Founded 1919)
Using pristine spring water from the Rokugo area and locally grown sake rice “Misato Nishiki”, the brewery crafts sake that reflects the character of its region.
(3) Mikadomatsu “Ke to Hare” Junmai Ginjo (Primur Yeast)
Shipping: Japan, Australia, Taiwan
Yeast: Wine yeast (Primur)
A new kind of sake inspired by wine yeast
This innovative junmai ginjo is brewed using wine yeast.
“Ke” refers to everyday life, while “Hare” represents special occasions — a traditional Japanese concept.
The name reflects the desire for people to enjoy sake both in daily life and on special occasions.
In the glass, it reveals tropical aromas reminiscent of banana and mango, with a rich and distinctive character. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Pairs beautifully with cheese, roast beef, and other Western-style dishes.
Brewery Information
Matsuoka Brewing Co., Ltd. (Ogawa Town, Saitama Prefecture / Founded 1851)
Known for the brand “Mikadomatsu”, this brewery has won gold medals at the National New Sake Awards for eight consecutive years. Its sake is characterised by mineral-rich hard water drawn from 130 metres underground.
＼Try a Variety First／
Although we have introduced a selection of unique sake defined by their yeast, we encourage you to try whichever catches your interest and discover your own preferred style.
＼Monthly Sake Recommendations／
Every month, Uchida and Seo from Diploma share their top sake picks, curated around a specific theme!
See Diploma’s recommended articles here
＼Available Online & In-Store／
At Tabitebako stores, we always stock over 50 types of sake and more than 10 island craft beers! On our EC site, we deliver carefully selected popular sakes, with shipping available to Japan, Taiwan, and Australia. If you’re visiting Tokyo’s Tsukiji area, be sure to stop by the store and explore in person!
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Author: Seo, Sake Diploma
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