Reviving Samurai Sake: Katsuyama Brewery’s 300-year legacy reimagined
Sendai Isawa Family Katsuyama Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., an institution steeped in over three centuries of tradition, has unveiled a milestone creation: the Ryoan Legend 2012 Junmai Daiginjo-Double Umami Finish – Umami Grand Cru. This limited-edition sake, launched in December 2024, symbolizes the brewery’s enduring legacy while embracing innovation to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sake connoisseurs.
What Makes Ryoan Legend 2012 a Unique Sake?
The Ryoan Legend 2012 is the product of a 300-year-old recipe, rediscovered and refined by Katsuyama Brewery‘s expert craftsmen. Using an exclusive centrifugal pressing method, the sake enhances “double the umami components of rice,” creating an unmatched depth of flavor. This process, combined with 12 years of ice aging at -5°C, results in a sake of unparalleled richness and complexity.
This premium sake is crafted from 2012 Yamada Nishiki Special A rice, cultivated near Mount Izumigatake, known for its nutrient-rich, silica-infused water. The meticulous brewing process highlights the natural terroir of Sendai while setting new benchmarks for quality and innovation in sake production.

How Does the Katsuyama Sake Brewery Honor Its Samurai Heritage?
The Katsuyama Sake Brewery has been an integral part of Sendai’s cultural fabric since its founding in 1688. As the official sake brewer for the feudal Sendai Domain under the iconic samurai leader Date Masamune, Katsuyama has long been synonymous with tradition and excellence. Masamune’s vision of international exchange and craftsmanship is exemplified in the brewery’s dedication to creating exceptional sake while preserving cultural heritage.
The theme “Ryoan” pays tribute to Heizaemon Isawa, Katsuyama’s sixth-generation owner. Isawa was instrumental in restoring Zuihō-ji, the ancestral temple of the Date family, ensuring the preservation of Sendai’s historical and cultural identity. The Ryoan Legend 2012 Junmai Daiginjo embodies this legacy, blending samurai pride with modern artistry.
What Awards Cement Katsuyama’s Reputation as a Global Sake Leader?
Katsuyama Brewery’s dedication to quality and innovation has garnered widespread acclaim. Some of its most celebrated accolades include:
- Junmai Ginjo “Ken” winning first place at the SAKE COMPETITION in 2015 and 2016.
- Junmai Daiginjo “Den” earning the President Sake title at France’s KURA MASTER competition in 2019.
- The flagship Junmai Daiginjo “Akatsuki” receiving 95 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate in 2016.
In the most recent 2024 SAKE COMPETITION, “Akatsuki” was recognized as a leading contender in the Super Premium category, further solidifying the brewery’s status as a global powerhouse in sake production.
What Sets the Ryoan Legend Apart from Other Premium Sakes?
The Ryoan Legend 2012 is a marriage of Edo-period brewing techniques and cutting-edge technology. Inspired by historical sake recipes, it amplifies the natural umami of rice, delivering a smooth and refined finish. Through centrifugal extraction, every drop is meticulously crafted to showcase the perfect balance of depth, crispness, and complexity.
This sake is presented in a handcrafted Sendai Tansu, a traditional cabinet symbolic of Sendai’s craftsmanship under the patronage of Date Masamune. The luxurious packaging reflects the essence of the product—an exquisite blend of history and modernity.
Why Is This Limited-Edition Sake Worth ¥1,000,000?
Priced at ¥1,000,000 (excluding tax), the Ryoan Legend 2012 offers an exclusive experience limited to only 50 bottles. Each 720ml bottle contains more than sake—it is a sensory journey into Japan’s rich samurai heritage and Katsuyama Brewery’s innovative artistry.
Recommended to be served chilled at 8–14°C, this sake pairs well with fine cuisine, elevating any occasion into an unforgettable experience.
A Tribute to Time and Tradition
The Ryoan Legend 2012 Junmai Daiginjo-Double Umami Finish is more than a product; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Sendai Isawa Family Katsuyama Sake Brewery. With its exceptional craftsmanship, historical significance, and exquisite presentation, this sake redefines the boundaries of what premium sake can achieve.
As a celebration of Date Masamune’s vision and Heizaemon Isawa’s dedication, the Ryoan Legend 2012 stands as a timeless symbol of innovation rooted in tradition.
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