Kato Kichibe Shoten

Kato Kichibe Shoten (加藤吉平商店), established in 1860, is located in Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture. The brewery is renowned for its sake brand Born (梵). The Kato family, originally money exchangers and village heads, began sake brewing, and the current head represents the eleventh generation, continuing the family tradition.

Kato Kichibe Shoten specializes in brewing only junmai (純米) sake without any additives. The brewery uses rice polished to an average rate of 34%, among the highest polishing standards in Japan. All their sake undergoes long-term aging at low temperatures, resulting in a smooth, deep flavor with fruity, matured aromas.

The brewery’s sake, Bon, has gained international acclaim, being served at state banquets and global events. It is exported to over 105 countries and has won top prizes in numerous international competitions. In 2021, Kato Kichibe Shoten ranked 28th in the World Sake Brewery Ranking, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in Japanese sake production.

Kato Kichibe Shoten continues to explore new avenues for sharing Japanese sake culture worldwide, while maintaining its focus on high-quality, artisanal sake production.