Gekkeikan Black and Gold Sake

Gekkeikan Black and Gold Sake is a 15.6% ABV junmai-shu — pure rice sake with no distilled alcohol added — brewed in the USA by Gekkeikan Sake (USA), Inc. in Folsom, California. The company's brewmaster blends the best of each fermentation from two sakes, "Traditional" and "Haiku," made from rice milled to 60% and 70% polishing ratios. Full-bodied with honeydew, papaya, anise, and roasted nuts and a long, smooth finish, it arrives in the brand's distinctive black bottle with gold accents. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.

• ABV: 15.6% alc/vol
• Size: 750mL
• Style: Junmai-shu (no distilled alcohol added)
• Origin: Brewed and bottled by Gekkeikan Sake (USA), Inc., Folsom, California (brand founded 1637, Fushimi, Kyoto)
• Production: Blend of "Traditional" and "Haiku" sakes; rice milled to 60% and 70% seimaibuai

America's Junmai in Black and Gold

Gekkeikan has brewed sake since 1637, and since 1989 it has done so in Folsom, California — American water, Japanese technique. Black and Gold is the showcase: a junmai built by blending two house sakes, one from rice polished to 60%, one to 70%, selected from the best of each fermentation by the brewmaster. The result is fuller-bodied than everyday sake, with tropical and nutty depth that stands up to rich food. It is equally at home slightly chilled or at room temperature. Browse our sake selection and the Gekkeikan range.

Tasting Notes

Per brand copy: full-bodied; honeydew, papaya, anise, and roasted nuts; a long, smooth finish.

How to Enjoy

Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pairs beautifully with sushi, tempura, and roast pork — the fuller body handles richer dishes than delicate ginjo styles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gekkeikan Black and Gold a junmai?
Yes — junmai-shu, meaning no distilled alcohol is added; it is brewed from rice, water, yeast, and koji only.

Where is it made?
In Folsom, California, by Gekkeikan Sake (USA), Inc. — brewed in the USA, not imported from Japan.

What does it taste like?
Full-bodied with honeydew, papaya, anise, and roasted nuts, per the brand.

Should it be served warm?
Slightly chilled or room temperature is ideal; this fuller style also takes gentle warming well.

Four centuries of brewing, one striking black bottle — order Gekkeikan Black and Gold Sake online today at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.