New Zealand's Only Sake Brewery - Handcrafted in Queenstown
Zenkuro Sake holds a remarkable place in New Zealand's drinks landscape - it is the country's first and only dedicated sake brewery, and one of very few operating outside Japan. Founded in Queenstown and drawing on the extraordinary purity of South Island mountain water, Zenkuro produces sake of genuine Japanese character with a distinctly Kiwi soul.
The brewery takes its name from two Japanese characters: 全 (zen, meaning "entirely" or "completely") and 黒 (kuro, meaning "black") - a combination that evokes power, depth, and a confidence that feels right at home in the Southern Alps.
Japanese Tradition, Southern Alps Water
Every bottle of Zenkuro sake begins with highly polished sake rice and water sourced from the pristine lakes and rivers surrounding Queenstown. That water - cold, mineral-pure, and uncompromised - is the foundation of everything Zenkuro does. It is what allows a brewery so far from Japan to produce sake that stands alongside the finest examples of the craft.
Head brewer David Joll brings a lifetime of connection to Japan to the brewing floor. First travelling there as a 17-year-old exchange student, he later studied Japanese at Auckland University, Shizuoka University, and Hitotsubashi University, where he completed postgraduate work in Japanese Studies. He is a certified Sake Professional and a black belt in Judo - and after years of dedicated research drinking sake, he is now among the most knowledgeable brewers in the Southern Hemisphere.
A Range Worth Exploring
Zenkuro produces both junmai and ginjo styles, alongside seasonal and limited releases that reward the curious. Their sake is best served chilled, and pairs beautifully with a wide range of food - from sushi and sashimi to roasted vegetables, soft cheeses, and delicate seafood. It is a genuinely versatile addition to any table, and one of the most interesting drinks being made in New Zealand today.
Zenkuro is stocked at Great Little Vineyards at Orakei Bay Village in Remuera, Auckland, and available to order online for delivery across New Zealand. Visit the Zenkuro website to learn more about the brewery and their story.
