OKUNOMATSU “18th Generation IHEI” Daiginjo

Nihonmatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan

Brewed by Okunomatsu Shuzo, one of Fukushima’s most respected sake houses, “18th Generation IHEI” honors the brewery’s long lineage and its second-generation president, Iheiji. Crafted in the traditional Shizukuzake style, this sake is drip-filtered without external pressure, allowing only the purest, gravity-drawn droplets to be collected. The result is a sake of extraordinary clarity, balance, and refinement.

Delicate aromas of Granny Smith apple, Asian pear, and lychee rise from the glass, leading to a vibrant, silky palate of ripe apricot, key lime, and custard accented by subtle notes of focaccia and sea salt. Each sip unfolds in crisp waves of fruit and umami, finishing clean and bright.

Originally brewed as a limited competition sake, Iheiji represents the pinnacle of the brewer’s art—elegant as wine, yet distinctly Japanese in soul. Awarded Gold Medal (94 pts) at the 2019 BTI World Wine Championships, it exemplifies balance, patience, and mastery.

Style: Daiginjo (Shizukuzake / Drip-Filtered)
Serving Temperature: Chilled
Perfect For: Fine dining, tasting menus, omakase pairings, and luxury retail