Yoigokochi
– Heerenveen, the Netherlands
Yoigokochi is a trailblazer in the world of sake, bringing the purest expressions of Japan’s national drink to Europe and beyond. Founded in 2008, Yoigokochi was the first company globally toimport and distribute solely Junmaishu sakes: pure sake made without additives.
The company’s journey began in Kyoto, where Dick’s passion for sake grew from years of immersion in Japan’s (sake) culture. Regular visits to local pure sake bars like Ukai Shōten and the discovery of unpasteurized and aged sakes ignited his vision to bring these rare, authentic flavors to the West.
Upon returning to Europe, Dick Stegewerns partnered with long-time friend Froukje Betten, an international food sales expert, to establish Yoigokochi Sake Importers. What started with a few hand-picked selections from Kyoto’s best sake bars has now evolved into a carefully curated portfolio of 130 sakes from 51 producers distributed across 20 European countries.
Their commitment to Junmaishu means every bottle is a true reflection of its ingredients – no distilled alcohol, no additives, just pure fermented rice, water, and koji. Their selection focuses on sakes that are predominantly muroka nama genshu – unpasteurized, unfiltered, and undiluted – allowing the sake’s natural flavors, textures, and complexities to shine through. This dedication to authenticity aligns them closely with the natural wine movement, hence their presence at our festival for the second time this year.
Varieties: Junmai, Junmai Ginjō, Junmai Daiginjō, Honjōzō, and specialized types like Muroka (unfiltered), Nama (unpasteurized), Genshu (undiluted), Kimoto, Yamahai, Nigori (cloudy), Kijōshu, and Koshu (aged sake)
Unpasteurized, unfiltered, undiluted and nothing added.
