Unfilter Co., Ltd. (headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Vincent Nicol) has launched a pre-order sale on the crowdfunding platform Makuake for "ZAININ BLACK" and "ZAININ WHITE," the first premium series of craft shochu "ZAININ (罪人)" developed in collaboration with Hachijojima's historic brewery, Sakashita Shuzo Co., Ltd. Only 300 sets are available for this limited pre-sale.
Makuake Pre-Sale Details
Makuake Project Link: https://www.makuake.com/project/unfilter01/
Title: Limited 300 Sets! Compare Black Koji's Robust Richness with White Koji's Mellow Sweetness - Hachijojima Terroir Tasting Set
Campaign Period: Until March 30, 2026
About ZAININ
"ZAININ" was born from the unique terroir of Hachijojima—shaped by volcanic soil—and the island's history as an Edo-period penal colony. The shochu features a distinctive mineral character reminiscent of sea breezes and volcanic rock. Since its launch in November 2025, ZAININ has gained support for its terroir-driven flavor profile that pairs beautifully with cuisine, spreading to Japanese restaurants, fusion establishments, and fine dining venues across Japan.
Rare All-Koji Method Barley Shochu
Two Distinct Original Sake Varieties Using Black and White Koji
This limited premium series debuts with only 300 sets available exclusively through Makuake pre-sale. The rare all-koji method barley shochu is bottled in two distinct original sake varieties, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the contrasting characteristics of black koji and white koji.
Collaboration with Hachijojima's Smallest Brewery
The production is handled by Sakashita Shuzo, a historic Hachijojima brewery celebrating its 100th anniversary. Master distiller Norio Okiyama, formerly a bartender, pursued his dream of sake brewing on his native Hachijojima through years of apprenticeship. He revived the dormant brewery in 2020 and now challenges himself with new brewing methods while maintaining traditional labels "Kuroshio," "Kihachijo," and "Jonary." He also farms sweet potatoes and lemons on the island alongside his brewing work.
Master Distiller Okiyama's Comment:
"It's been five years since we reopened the brewery. Each year, I've experimented with various brewing formulations seeking new discoveries. Increasing the koji ratio creates richer, more complex flavors and character. To bring out the koji-derived aromas even more prominently, I brewed using 100% koji and differentiated between black and white koji to let their individual personalities shine. I hope you'll enjoy the rich, full-bodied flavors and lingering finish of each variety."
Product Overview
ZAININ BLACK
Deeply roasted barley complexity and bold spiciness
Black koji all-koji method barley shochu original sake
Transforming past hardships into warm memories with depth and lingering warmth. A shochu for quiet moments of self-reflection.
Product Name: ZAININ BLACK
Ingredients: Barley (domestic), Barley Koji (domestic)
Method: All-koji method
Alcohol Content: 44%
Volume: 720ml
Flavor Profile:
- Deep, roasted barley aroma
- Bold spiciness with warm, multi-layered finish
- Fresh, plant-like aftertaste
Recommended Serving: Straight, on the rocks
ZAININ WHITE
Silky texture with gentle finish
White koji all-koji method barley shochu original sake
Enveloped in floral aroma and vanilla-custard sweetness with a silky texture and gentle finish. A shochu ritual for forgiving yourself and greeting tomorrow with renewed spirit.
Product Name: ZAININ WHITE
Ingredients: Barley (domestic), Barley Koji (domestic)
Method: All-koji method
Alcohol Content: 44%
Volume: 720ml
Flavor Profile:
- Sweet, floral aroma
- Creamy vanilla-custard notes
- Silky texture with gentle finish
Recommended Serving: Straight, on the rocks
Seller: Unfilter Co., Ltd.
Producer: Sakashita Shuzo Co., Ltd. (Hachijojima, Tokyo)
Website: https://zainin.jp
Instagram: @zainin_japan
Sales Information
Makuake Pre-Sale Start: February 6, 2026 (Friday) 12:00 PM
Product delivery is scheduled for mid-April onward.
Makuake Product Offerings
(1) ZAININ BLACK & WHITE 720ml 2-Bottle Set - ¥13,200 (tax and shipping included)
Two-bottle set of BLACK and WHITE (Early bird price: ¥12,000)
(2) ZAININ BLACK & WHITE + ZAININ 720ml 3-Bottle Set - ¥15,928 (tax and shipping included)
Three-bottle set including BLACK, WHITE, and the original ZAININ (Early bird price: ¥14,500)
*Note: Prices do not include Makuake's assurance system fee.
*Early bird offers are limited to 50 sets each.
About Unfilter Co., Ltd.
Unfilter Co., Ltd. (Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
CEO: Vincent Nicol
With the mission of "delivering passion," Unfilter collaborates with artisans to create "sake with stories" that reflect Japan's terroir and history, delivering them domestically and internationally. French-born CEO Vincent has lived in Japan for over 20 years and contributed to the growth of various top-tier brands in the beverage industry. Unfilter aims to help bring excellent aged sake sleeping in the distilleries of the Izu Islands to the world.
