Minakata Gokukara Junmai Hiire

Minakata Gokukara Junmai Hiire (南方 極辛 純米酒 火入れ) is made with Yamadanishiki rice from Okayama Prefecture, milled to 60% and brewed to achieve an exceptionally dry profile. It is produced as a hi-ire genshu, meaning it undergoes pasteurisation but is otherwise left undiluted after pressing, retaining its full strength and structure.

While extra-dry sakes are defined around an SMV of +15, this one reaches +20, making it one of the driest styles available. Despite this extreme dryness, it preserves the savoury depth and lingering flavour of the Yamadanishiki, with a clean and crisp finish. The acidity level of 2.0, although high, is well integrated, contributing to sharpness without overshadowing the underlying umami. The result is a sake that combines firmness and maturity with surprising clarity and smoothness on the throat. With an alcohol content of 20%, a polishing ratio of 60%, and its use of 100% Yamada Nishiki, it balances intensity and refinement. This sake bears the name Minakata (南方), after Minakata Kumagusu (1867-1941), the renowned naturalist from Wakayama, and embodies both strength and precision in its character.

Sekai Ittō Brewery is located in Wakayama City. It was founded in 1884, when Minakata Yaemon (南方弥右衛門), the father of the naturalist Minakata Kumagusu, inherited rice warehouses from the former daimyō of Kishū and established a sake brewery. In 1890, Minakata Tsunenaga (南方常楠), Kumagusu's brother, took over the business. Initially producing 3,000 koku of sake, it quickly gained recognition, ranking 21st in national production. In 1907, statesman Okuma Shigenobu bestowed the name "Sekai Itto" (Uniting the World) upon the brewery's sake.

The company experienced significant growth, establishing breweries in Nishimiya, Hyōgo Prefecture (1910) and Saijō, Hiroshima Prefecture (1937). This expansion facilitated distribution throughout Japan, as well as to Korea and China. Following World War II, the brewery faced challenges, losing all production facilities in the 1945 Wakayama air raid. However, it quickly rebuilt and continued its operations.

Later, the brewery achieved significant milestones, including the launch of its flagship Ginjō "Ichi" brand, the construction of its headquarters on the historic site of the Gakushukan school, and the modernisation of its brewing processes. It garnered international recognition with the Platinum Award at Sake China for its Daiginjō Gokusen Minakata. The "Minakata" series, named after the brewery owner, became a cornerstone of its brand, and the company expanded its product line to include liqueurs and other beverages.