Saga Region
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Saga Region
A REGION WITH RICH LANDS…
The Saga region is located on the island of Kyushu, in Southwest Japan, primarily known for its production of shochu, the country’s traditional distilled spirit. Saga’s climate and geography, in particular, are conducive to rice production, making it a regional exception as it is the only truly rice-growing region in Kyushu.
…PERFECT FOR SAKE PRODUCTION:
The abundance of quality rice in Saga Prefecture, along with its numerous water sources (another essential ingredient for sake brewing), naturally destined it for the production of this traditional fermented alcoholic beverage.
SAKE WITH REFINED TASTE:
Saga sakes are generally mild, sometimes almost mellow, full-bodied, and very flavorful. Elegant and balanced, they can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, and are particularly appreciated when paired with dishes during a meal.
A CONTROLLED DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN:
In the world of sake, the concept of terroir is usually less important than in wine: it is possible to brew sake with rice produced on the other side of Japan. However, in recent years, there has been a trend towards highlighting regional specificities, particularly in Saga, with the emergence of two certifications: the Geographical Indication (GI) Saga implemented by central authorities, and “The SAGA,” resulting from a regional initiative. These two labels guarantee local, authentic sakes that express the full richness of the region’s terroir.
For more information read this article about GI Saga.
Producers in the region
Kiyama Brewery
Located at the eastern end of Saga Prefecture, on Kyushu Island, Kiyama Brewery was founded at the beginning of the Meiji era by an association of landowners who decided to try brewing sake.
Komatsu Brewery
Komatsu Brewery is a small brewery located in the mountains of northern Saga Prefecture. Founded around 1850, it has 5 members, including the current director Daisuke Komatsu, 7th in line, who also serves as Toji (master brewer).
Matsuuraichi Brewery
Founded in 1716, Matsuuraichi Brewery has been producing sake for over 300 years in Imari, a small town famous for its ceramics, which have been highly valued in the West for centuries.
Munemasa
Munemasa Brewery was founded in Imari, a city in Saga renowned for its porcelain for centuries. In March 2002, the main premises were relocated to Arita Porcelain Park.
Sachihime Brewery
Sachihime Brewery was founded in 1934 in Kashima City, Saga. The name Sachihime, ‘princess of happiness,’ was chosen by the master brewer in honor of his daughter.
The Koimari Brewery
The small Koimari sake brewery was founded in 1909 by the Maeda family, who have been running the business for 11 generations now. As its name suggests, the brewery is located in the city of Imari, a port city in Western Japan famous for its colorful porcelains, highly prized in Europe since the 18th century.
The Mitsutake Brewery
Founded in 1688, The Mitsutake Brewery have a long history, and its influence in the region’s sake production is undeniable. “Innovation in Tradition”.
Products from the region
Sake Junmai Ginjo Munemasa
Ume Yoibito Umeshu Liqueur
Sake Junmai Ginjo Sachihime Dear My Princess
Sumiyama Junmai Ginjo Sake
Kimpa Tokubetsu Honjozo Sake
Nomirinko Liqueur
Matsuuraichi Nankobai Umeshu Liqueur
Sake Junmai Ginjo Velvet
