On Feb. 14 the Japan Grain Inspection Association announced it’s the results of its annual rice taste test. Of the 128 rice varieties inspected, 29 were given the highest grade of ‘Special A’, including 7 from Kyushu—a record for the island. The highest scoring rice was Kumamoto’s Mori no Kumasan Rice, and two other Kyushu rice brands, Hinohikari (Kumamoto) and Sagabiyori (Saga), were part of a three-way tie for second place. The Association scores rice according to its appearance, aroma, flavor and stickiness, but the point totals are not disclosed. The other Special A-ranking Kyushu rice brands were Genki Tsukushi (Fukuoka), Nikomaru (Nagasaki), Kumasan no Chikara (Kumamoto) and Hinohikari (Oita). Association president Toru Yamamoto commented on this year’s rankings by saying, “Kyushu brands rank well because varieties suited to Kyushu’s climate have been developed and the farmers are dedicated. We look forward to seeing more high quality rice from Kyushu.” The Association has been ranking rice brands since 1971. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun, Feb. 15
