Choki Jukusei-shu

Choki jukusei-shu (long-term aged sake) refers to sake that has been aged for longer than usual, generally three years or more. While ordinary sake is aged for about six months to one year, long-term aged sake, as the name suggests, is produced through a prolonged period of aging. During this process, the sake acquires a mellow taste and a sweet aged aroma, offering a distinctive flavor. Its color ranges from pale amber to deep ruby, which makes it visually attractive as well. In the brewing industry, sake made in the current year is called shinshu (new sake), while sake made in the previous year is called Koshu (aged sake). There is no strict definition of Koshu, but among long-term aged sake, bottles aged for 3, 5, or even 10 or 15 years are typically prized and attract attention. Through such extended aging, sake develops a taste with its own depth and complexity, and it becomes a particularly high-priced product. Commonly also called "Koshu," this sake holds a special place for sake enthusiasts.