Did you know there are dozens of sparkling sakes available in the U.S. market today? Prices range widely—from under $5 per bottle at retail to $300 per bottle at top Japanese restaurants in cities like New York and Las Vegas.
So why such a dramatic difference?
The Two Types of Sparkling Sake
There are two fundamentally different types of sparkling sake:
- Artificially carbonated sparkling sake – Carbon dioxide is injected, similar to soda.
- Naturally carbonated sparkling sake – Carbonation is created through in-bottle fermentation, a slower and more labor-intensive process.
Naturally carbonated sake takes more time, precision, and care to produce, which is why it commands a higher price. If you simply need something cold and bubbly, an inexpensive option may do. But if you’re looking for authentic sparkling sake, naturally carbonated is the gold standard.
Why “NATURAL” Is Truly Natural
Sparkling Sake “NATURAL” Junmai Ginjo by NINKI-ICHI earns its name for three clear reasons:
- Only rice and koji are used—no additives, no flavoring.
- Carbonation is entirely natural, not injected.
- Fermentation occurs inside the bottle, trapping carbon dioxide naturally, much like Champagne.
Despite having no added flavors, “NATURAL” delivers elegant aromatics of white chocolate, nuts, and ume plum, followed by a palate of apple jelly, breezy pear, spiced apple, and a clean radish-tinged finish. The body is light, frothy, and refreshing, making it remarkably easy to drink.
Craftsmanship Rooted in Northern Japan
NINKI-ICHI uses only Tohoku (Northern Japan) sake rice and koji, emphasizing purity and regional character. Each 300ml bottle undergoes fermentation individually, preserving freshness while achieving fine, delicate bubbles.
What truly sets NINKI-ICHI apart:
Out of nearly 1,000 sake breweries in Japan, NINKI-ICHI is the only brewery dedicated exclusively to Ginjo and Daiginjo production. They do not make regular sake—only super-premium and ultra-premium styles.
Equally important, the brewery commits to a handcrafted philosophy, openly stating that their craftsmanship “cannot be replaced by machines.” Traditional wooden tanks and tools are still used, a rarity in modern sake production.
A Rare, Award-Winning Sparkling Sake Experience
“NATURAL” is classified as Junmai Ginjo, meaning the rice is polished to 60%, removing over 40% of the outer layer to achieve greater elegance and clarity.
Awards & Recognition
- Gold Medal – Kura Master 2019
- Official Sake – Tokyo International Movie Festival
Specifications
- Sake Type: Junmai Ginjo Sparkling
- Rice Polishing Rate: 60%
- Rice: Tohoku Sake Rice
- SMV: -70
- Bottle Size: 300ml
Food Pairing Recommendations
“NATURAL” shines with dishes that emphasize freshness and clean flavors. It also works beautifully as an aperitif or palate cleanser.
Recommended pairings include:
- Fresh oysters on the half shell
- Lobster rolls
- Whitefish baked in salt
Final Thought
If you’re ready to experience truly natural sparkling sake, crafted without compromise by one of Japan’s most distinctive breweries, Sparkling Sake “NATURAL” Junmai Ginjo by NINKI-ICHI delivers purity, precision, and quiet luxury in every bottle.