“Kitaya Sparkling Crystal” wins the highest prize in the sparkling category of the sake section at the 2020 IWC!

　At this year’s International Wine Challenge (IWC), one of the largest and most respected wine contests in the world, “Kitaya Sparkling Crystal” was awarded the 2020 “Trophy” (top prize) in the sparkling sake category.

◼ “Kitaya Sparkling Crystal”—a 2020 IWC “Trophy” winner

　“Kitaya Sparkling Crystal” is a transparently clear, natural sparkling Japanese sake that is produced by secondary fermentation in a bottle and made with 100% “Yamadanishiki” rice grown in Itoshima in Fukuoka Prefecture. On August 15, 2020, this sparkling sake, loaded with exotic and gorgeous aromas and rich, elegant flavors, was chosen as one of the alcoholic drinks for the “Seven Stars in Kyushu,” a luxury sleeper train operated in Kyushu, Japan, by JR Kyushu, and has been served on the train since then.

◼ What is the International Wine Challenge (IWC)?

　The International Wine Challenge (IWC) is one of the world’s largest wine tasting competitions. It is held every year in London and said to be the most influential wine contest in the world. In 2007, the sake section was added to the contest, and since then, brands that have won IWC prizes in that section have received great attention both within Japan and abroad.