Kyokai No. 18
No.18
Strain Number
No.18
Type
Kyokai (協会酵母)
Origin
National Research Institute of Brewing (2006)
Aroma Profile
Extremely high ethyl caproate production — intense apple, pear, and melon fragrance. The most aromatic Kyokai yeast.
Fermentation Character
Vigorous at low temperatures, producing exceptionally fruity sake. Requires skilled temperature management to avoid over-production of esters.
About
The most aromatic yeast in the Kyokai lineup, K-18 was specifically developed to maximize ethyl caproate (apple-like ester) production. When used with highly polished rice at low fermentation temperatures, it creates sake with extraordinary fruity fragrance approaching perfume intensity. Increasingly popular for competition daiginjo and premium junmai daiginjo, though it demands precise temperature control to avoid harsh ester notes.