Products of Yamakawa (Okinawa)

Founded in 1946, Yamakawa Shuzo is one of Okinawa’s most respected Awamori distilleries. Located in Japan’s southernmost prefecture, the distillery was established with a clear mission: to revive the tradition of Kūsū – Awamori aged for at least three years. This heritage-driven approach has made Yamakawa a pioneer in crafting authentic, age-worthy Japanese spirits.

At the heart of Yamakawa’s philosophy is a commitment to purity and precision. The distillery draws mineral-rich water from its own natural source, ensuring a unique depth of flavour in every bottle. By focusing on techniques that maximise flavour extraction while keeping filtration to a minimum, Yamakawa creates Awamori with both character and clarity.

The house gained international recognition when it released the first ever vintage-labelled Awamori in Okinawa, marking a milestone in the history of Japanese spirits. Among its acclaimed releases is Sangosho Black Awamori, celebrated for its balance of tropical fruit, spice and refreshing finish.

Awarded at the Kura Master 2024, Yamakawa Shuzo continues to represent the soul of Okinawan craftsmanship – producing Awamori that appeals not only to spirit enthusiasts, but also to wine lovers seeking complexity, depth and terroir-driven authenticity.

Ma Sake - Japanese Liqour Store

Yamakawa (Okinawa)

Sangosho Black Awamori - 720ml

Sangosho Black Awamori is a rare Japanese spirit that appeals to wine and fine spirit enthusiasts alike. This vintage Awamori opens with delicate floral notes, layered with ripe peach, mango and tropical fruit. On the palate, a gentle sweetness is balanced by warming spice nuances of ginger and cardamom, creating both depth and elegance. Matured in stainless steel, it retains remarkable freshness while offering richness and a clean, refreshing finish. Sangosho Black is the first Awamori ever to be officially labelled as a vintage in Okinawa – a milestone in Japanese spirits. Crafted at the Yamakawa Distillery on Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost island, this unique Awamori reflects both heritage and innovation. Founded in 1946, Yamakawa set out to revive the tradition of Kūsū – Awamori aged for at least three years – and remains committed to authenticity. Using mineral-rich water from its own source, the distillery maximises flavour through careful distillation and minimal filtration. Recognised at the Kura Master 2021, Yamakawa has earned acclaim for producing Awamori of outstanding quality and character.

€29.00

Yamakawa (Okinawa)

Sakura Ichiban 3yrs Awamori - 700ml

Sakura Ichiban 3yrs Awamori is a refined Japanese spirit crafted by the renowned Yamakawa Distillery on Okinawa. Aged for three years, it reveals the elegant character of Kūsū (matured Awamori): a gentle fragrance, subtle sweetness and layered complexity that wine lovers will appreciate for its balance and finesse. The name Sakura Ichiban pays tribute to the Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival, the first cherry blossom celebration held annually in Japan. Just as the blossoms mark the start of spring, this Awamori embodies freshness, renewal and delicate beauty. Founded in 1946, Yamakawa Distillery is dedicated to preserving the culture of Kūsū. Using its own source of mineral-rich water, Yamakawa ensures purity and terroir-driven character. Distillation methods focus on maximising flavour extraction with minimal filtration, creating spirits of authenticity and depth. Sakura Ichiban 3yrs combines the elegance of fine aged wine with the craftsmanship of Okinawa’s oldest traditions – a must-discover for connoisseurs seeking distinctive Japanese Awamori.

€35.50

Yamakawa (Okinawa)

Sakura Ichiban 5yrs Awamori - 720ml

Sakura Ichiban 5yrs Awamori is a refined Japanese spirit from the historic Yamakawa Distillery in Okinawa. Aged for five years, it expresses the elegance of Kūsū (matured Awamori) with a delicate fragrance, gentle sweetness and layered complexity that wine lovers will appreciate for its balance and finesse. On the nose, light floral and mellow Kūsū aromas set the tone. The palate reveals a soft sweetness and rich depth, developing into a more powerful taste when enjoyed neat. When diluted with water, the spirit becomes smoother while retaining its signature character. Clear and transparent, this Awamori also serves beautifully as a base for refined cocktails. Named after the Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival, the very first of Japan’s annual sakura celebrations, Sakura Ichiban embodies freshness, elegance and a deep sense of Okinawan tradition. Founded in 1946, Yamakawa Distillery is dedicated to reviving and preserving the culture of Kūsū. Using mineral-rich spring water from its own source and careful distillation with minimal filtration, Yamakawa produces Awamori that reflects both craftsmanship and terroir. Sakura Ichiban 5yrs combines the elegance of aged wine with the distinctive soul of Okinawa – a must-try for connoisseurs seeking authentic Japanese Awamori.

€41.25

Yamakawa (Okinawa)

Sangosho 10yrs Awamori - 720ml

Sangosho 10yrs Awamori is a rare aged Japanese spirit crafted by the historic Yamakawa Distillery in Okinawa. Matured for over a decade in stainless steel, it reveals a rich, sweet and mature bouquet that immediately stands out. On the palate, its fine oil content lends a silky, almost creamy texture, while long ageing brings depth, balance and refinement. Delicate layers of subtle sweetness unfold alongside cocoa-like bitterness, spreading elegantly across the mouth – a profile that wine lovers will recognise for its complexity and length.Founded in 1946, Yamakawa Distillery is dedicated to preserving the tradition of Kūsū – Awamori aged for at least three years. With its own source of mineral-rich spring water, the distillery ensures purity and character in every drop. Distillation is carefully managed to maximise flavour extraction while keeping filtration to a minimum, resulting in spirits that are both authentic and expressive of Okinawa’s unique terroir.

€75.00

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