A rather unusual brand, Born, stands out by its name as well as its consistent quality, which is much appreciated locally and globally.

When I saw their name, I had to ask someone how to read it. Born or bon means “purity” and “striking truth” in Sanskrit, and also implies “birth” and “creativity”.

Certainly, this sake from Kato Kichibei shows “purity” and “creativity”. For one thing, this kura’s naming scheme for their sake is unique with brews such as: 夢は正夢 (Dreams come true), 地球 (Earth), 氷山 (Iceberg ), and 日本の翼 (Wings of Japan ). These are a refreshing change from more traditional sake marks.

Another point of interest is that they definitely have the global market in mind, with many international awards and well established distribution overseas. Kichibei has been careful to secure trademarks in the US and produces quality marketing materials in English as well as Japanese.

The history of Kato Kichibei Shoten goes way back to 1860, when Kato Kichbei the first started this brewery. The current President, Kato Kichibei the 11th is quite a character with an infectious enthusiasm for sake. We had a chance to chat with him at a recent Mitsuya Shoten sponsored tasting, and were both really impressed with his energy level and his devotion to sake.

We tried Wings of Japan and Born muroka (unfiltered), nama (unpasteurized) junmai daiginjyo. Both have a very clear sweet taste with plenty of depth.

Here are a few of the reasons why Born is so good. First, their water pumped from 180 meter well on site. Second, they use their own kobo guaranteeing a unique flavor. Third, no additional alcohol is added- all you taste is the high quality ingredients and care used in production. Fourth, all their sake is aged 1-5 years before shipped in controlled temperatures.

Wings of Japan and Born muroka nama junmai daiginjyo are both available in Japan and overseas. Request these at your local Jpanese restaurant or specialty liquor shop if you are having trouble finding high quality sake outside Japan.

We came across Iceberg which we are saving for a special occasion, but wanted to share this very unique, almost, art form of packaging.

What at first appears to be a regular box
from the outside…

…reveals “Peace of The World” when you open the top…

…to find three blue bottles inside….

…with each bottle slightly tilted.

I am trying to figure out the concept behind this package. Or, is it just “striking truth” I am trying to figure out…