"Ginjo-shu" is a term whose direct translation is closest to "specially selected". This means "the good stuff" when applied to the category of premium, chilled sake produced by the top brewers in Japan.  Always look for the Vine Connections logo on the back label for proof of real Sake quality "the good stuff" seal of approval!

Vine Connections’ portfolio of premium Japanese ginjo sake comes from ancient, family-run breweries that not only utilize traditional brewing methods but also employ many practices to help preserve the land, keep the environment clean, and ensure the purest ingredients are used in their fine brews. Some of these practices include:

Pesticide/chemical-free: Our brewers seek out premium sake rice growers who use no, or virtually no, harmful pesticides, fertilizers or other chemicals.

Recyclable ingredients: By-products from the sake rice milling process are reused as animal feed or for pickling.

Purest water sources: Our breweries are built near or directly above the natural springs and rivers that supply their water. The water from these sources is typically so pristine and pure that there is no need to filter or adjust it in any way.  

Sustainable community: Our brewers often use locally grown sake rice, sometimes from neighboring farmers, and employ local kurabito (brewing staff) to not only support the local community but also maintain quality control over growing and brewing practices.

Read in-depth details here of some specific eco-friendly brewing practices followed by some of our brewers.

Please see Vine Connections for details on each bottle listed below.

Nanbu Bijin - Ancient Pillars

Kanbara - Bride of the Fox

Ginga Shizuku - Divine Droplets

Rihaku Nigori - Dreamy Clouds

Chiyonosono - Garden of Eternity

Tentaka Kuni - Hawk in the Heavens

Ama no To - Heaven's Door

Tozai - Living Jewel

Fukucho - Moon on the Water

Takasago - Morning Glow

Sato no Homare - Mountain Crossing

Sato no Homare - Pride of the Village

Mukune - Root of Innocence

Chiyonosono - Sacred Power

Mukune - Shadows of Katano

Takatenjin - Shrine of the Village

Tentaka - Silent Stream

Tozai- Snow Maiden

Nanbu Bijin - Southern Beauty

Mantensei - Star-Filled Sky

Ama No To - Time of Reflection

Tozai - Voices in the Mist

Rihaku - Wandering Poet

Tozai - Well of Wisdom

Kanbara - Wings of Fortune