Cover Ryuji Ikoma, the founder of Sake Hundred
Ryuji Ikoma, the founder of Sake Hundred
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Tatler+
Sake is part of Japanese cultural heritage. The drink has a 2,000-year history and Sake from each area of the country often bears its own unique qualities.
With tens of thousands of brands of Sake from 1,400 breweries, Sake Hundred is one that stands out and fuses innovation and tradition. The brand has won top awards at competitions worldwide, including those in the United States, France, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom, and has been selected as the official drink partner for prestigious art fairs and film festivals worldwide.
Ryuji Ikoma, the founder of Sake Hundred, told Tatler that even though his brand is the youngest, they are “the most dynamic innovators in the sake industry, pioneering new market developments.”
Read more: Drinkable culture that traces back thousands of years
Above The water source is an important element in making sake. (Photo by Sake Hundred)
The water source is an important element in making sake. (Photo by Sake Hundred)
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Light for future Japan.
Ikoma called Sake Hundred “light for future Japan,” as the industry can support cultural heritage, while creating jobs in rural areas.
“Japan's environment, such as water and mountains, along with its culture, must be preserved and shared with the world. I believe promoting Japanese sake can lead to the advancement of Japan's future, as it supports the country's primary industries, rural employment, and cultural heritage. Protecting and sharing Japan's environment, water, mountains, and culture are crucial endeavors,” Ikoma explained.
Before Sake Hundred takes over the world’s premium market, however, Ikoma said he wants to make sure the brand has a strong footing in Asia first.
Above Shinsei, sparkling Sake by Sake Hundred. (Photo by Sake Hundred)
Shinsei, sparkling Sake by Sake Hundred. (Photo by Sake Hundred)
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Detail makes all the difference
Sake Hundred sets itself apart from others using innovation. Ikoma traveled to hundreds of places to learn the various techniques used in making the traditional drink. Then he created a unique formula for his Sake.
The attention to detail makes all the difference; the percentage of rice grains to be polished, the level of acidity and controlling fermentation are among the many elements, which give Sake Hundred its unique clarity and flavor.
Ikoma said he does not focus on making volume, rather he has the brand grow sustainably and be able to grow its market value.
He said Sake is the “love” for people. “Drinking sake enriches the human heart, brings fluctuations in emotions and colors daily life. Sake Hundred strongly affirms these human activities, harboring a strong desire to make life more positive. The product embodies the sentiment of our brand’s purpose: ‘To fill hearts and color your life’.”
Above BYAKKO, the flagship product of Sake Hundred. (Photo by Sake Hundred)
BYAKKO, the flagship product of Sake Hundred. (Photo by Sake Hundred)
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BYAKKO
BYAKKO is the flagship product of the brand, and is what Ikoma called “the pinnacle of premium Japanese sake,” as it showcases the best of sake brewing technology.
With a rice polishing ratio of 18%, BYAKKO offers an extremely pure clarity while delivering a rich taste, and still being able to maintain balance without compromising the umami, acidity and sweetness.
“The real marvel of BYAKKO is its ability to balance clarity and taste, which are traditionally considered to be at odds with each other. From the conceptual stage, BYAKKO was intended to be a sake that brings joy and smiles to people around the world,” Ilkoma said.
Though Ikoma believes that all Sake Hundred products will be loved by Thai consumers, the sparkling Sake, such as Shinsei and Hakuso, are expected to do exceptionally well, as they complement the climate and cuisine of Thailand.
