What characterizes the Japanese sake brand HENGE?

It focuses on reviving the ancient 'one-stage brewing' technique from the Nara/Edo periods, blending tradition with innovation to create unique sake flavor profiles.

Where can I purchase HENGE sake?

It is typically sold exclusively through their official website via a lottery system, making it highly sought after and rare.

How was HENGE CLEAR rated at the IWC?

It won a gold medal in its first entry. Judges praised its vibrant aromas, unique palate, and balanced depth.

Sake Brand 'HENGE', Founded by 27-Year-Old Former Trader, Wins Gold Medal at IWC 2026

Published May 23, 2026 3:22 AM ・ Updated Jun 14, 2026 5:01 AM ・ 3 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

Sake brand 'HENGE,' operated by Cypher Inc., has won a Gold Medal at the prestigious IWC 2026 for its 'HENGE CLEAR Muroka Nama Genshu.' CEO Yusuke Noriya achieved this feat within a year of the brand's launch by reviving the traditional 'one-stage brewing' method.

HENGE Wins Gold at IWC 2026

Japanese sake brand 'HENGE' (operated by Cypher Inc.; CEO: Yusuke Noriya, 27) announced that its signature product, 'HENGE CLEAR Muroka Nama Genshu,' was awarded a Gold Medal at the IWC 2026, held in Hiroshima on May 18, 2026, which is recognized as one of the world's most prestigious sake competitions.

### A Remarkable Feat in Its First Year HENGE is an emerging brand that debuted in April 2025. CEO Noriya, a former trader at Marubeni, became independent at 25 to manifest his conviction that Japanese sake is a culture the world should take pride in. This award marks the first global validation of his vision.

### Pursuing Tradition and Originality HENGE aims to explore the 'shape-shifting' possibilities of sake. By utilizing the 'one-stage brewing' technique inherited from the Nara and Edo periods, the brand has established a brewing method that fuses tradition with innovation. Its unique flavor profile, unconstrained by conventional norms, is highly regarded by Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels.

### About 'HENGE CLEAR Muroka Nama Genshu' Released in November 2025, it is one of the brand's main products, consistently selling out monthly. - Volume: 720ml - Rice: 100% Hyogo-grown Yamada Nishiki - Alcohol content: 13% - Brewing location: Niigata Prefecture - Price: 14,800 JPY (tax included)

IWC judges praised it, stating: 'Fresh cherry and vibrant aromas rise from the glass. The zesty, funky palate, combined with creamy muscat and gooseberry, provides a refreshing, unique, and deep taste, rounded off with balanced sweetness.'

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: New Product
Products / services: HENGE

Sake Brand 'HENGE', Founded by 27-Year-Old Former Trader, Wins Gold Medal at IWC 2026

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HENGE Wins Gold at IWC 2026

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