光榮菊 月光 天然乳酸菌仕込 火入

【Koueigiku Natural Lactic-Acid Gekko Pasteurized】
Aug / Sept 2026

Koueigiku Shuzo is located in Ogi, Saga. After the original brewery ceased operations, former television professionals Satoshi Kusaka and Yuya Tashita took it over and relaunched it under a new brand, with former Kikutaka brewer Katsuaki Yamamoto as toji.  Following extensive renovations, the first sake was pressed in December 2019, and the brewery soon attracted attention as a venture led by newcomers from another industry. Its style centres on light textures, juicy sweetness and acidity, and refreshing finishes. Most releases are unfiltered, unpasteurised and undiluted, alongside explorations of naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria and barrel maturation.

Gekko is brewed with a starter that develops acidity through naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria, using 100% Yamada Nishiki rice. Pasteurized and bottled at 13% ABV, it offers restrained sweetness and clearly defined acidity. Initially reserved after opening, it begins to unfold after around four days, gradually revealing greater complexity and roundness. It is a sake to revisit over several sittings and enjoy as it develops.

Fresh green apple aromas lead to a lightly textured, slightly dry palate. A gentle apple-core bitterness and a touch of astringency give the middle definition, before bright acidity brings a clean finish. With time after opening, the palate can become rounder and more expressive.

Serving temperature
Suggested chilled at approximately 10–12°C, then allowed to warm slightly in the glass.

Occasion
Seafood and grilled-food gatherings · Drinkers who prefer restrained sweetness and fresh acidity · Exploring naturally occurring lactic-acid fermentation · Following a sake’s development after opening

Food Pairing
White fish with ponzu · Salt-grilled scallops · Prawn tempura · Salt-grilled chicken thigh · Grilled mushrooms · Steamed sea fish

【Brewery】Koueigiku Shuzo
【Region】Saga
【Grade】Undisclosed
【Volume】720ml
【Rice】100% Yamadanishiki
【Polishing Ratio】Undisclosed
【ABV】13%