Sake Brands
in Gunma
Ryujin
Carrying the همان name as the brewery, this brand symbolizes the exquisite water from the "Well of Ryujin (Dragon God)" that springs from beneath the facility.
KIYOMIZU
A contemporary brand crafted exclusively from the Gunma-grown "Maikaze" rice variety. KIYOMIZU 50 features a 50% polishing ratio and 16% alcohol content, presented in a 750ml bottle. As a vintage-dated sake, it offers the unique opportunity to explore the subtle variations in flavor profile from one harvest year to the next.
Sakaemasu
A vintage sake made with 100% Niigata-grown Gohyakumangoku rice, symbolizing the brewery's revival. It features a crisp finish and a beautifully balanced, umami-rich profile. To highlight its elegance, it is presented in a Burgundy-style bottle with a cork stopper and is best enjoyed from a wine glass, where its radiant yellow-gold aged hue can also be appreciated.
Tosen
A Honjozo style sake with a name that means "winning (an election or prize)," making it extremely popular as a celebratory gift for such events. Its auspicious connotation makes it a favorite choice for various ceremonies and formal gifts.
Hiraijo
Named after Hirai Castle, the former residence of the Kanto Kanrei Uesugi clan that stood in Fujioka over 560 years ago. This dry Junmai Ginjo is purposefully crafted to complement food, celebrating the region's rich historical legacy.
Nemurizake
A Daiginjo sake aged for over 10 or even 20 years, characterized by the profound depth of flavor that only long-term maturation can provide. It offers a mellow, complex profile of aromas and tastes that evolve beautifully over time.
Ruka
An exclusive brand created by the 6th generation brewer, known for its vibrantly fruity, floral aroma, gentle mouthfeel, and robust umami. The name "Ruka" was chosen from potential names for the brewer's own child, reflecting a heartfelt desire to nurture this brand with the utmost care.
Sambaseki
Named after the "Samba Stone" (Sambaseki), a famous type of landscaping stone produced in Fujioka (formerly Onishi Town). The brand's production has been taken over by Matsuya Shuzo, ensuring the survival of this traditional label.
Iwao
The flagship brand of Takai Co., Ltd., named after General Iwao Oyama, a prominent hero of the Meiji era. Brewed with the underground water of Ayukawa, it is characterized by a flavor profile that balances robust power with refined delicacy.
Joshu no Kanbai
A local sake of Gunma (Joshu) named after the winter plums that bloom in the cold. It is characterized by a composed, clean, and elegant flavor.
Judaime Sakuemon
A brand named after the hereditary title of the Takai family head, representing the brewery's long-standing tradition and heritage.
Fukuei
This brand is no longer in production due to the brewery's closure.
Joshukko
A brand created with a deep affection for Gunma (Joshu) as a signature local sake. It is no longer in production due to the brewery's closure.
Kiryu
Believed to be named after the local place name "Kiryu" near Midori City. It is no longer in production due to the brewery's closure.
Akagisan
The signature brand of Kondo Shuzo, brewed at the foot of Mount Akagi and characterized by a steadfast commitment to the dry (karakuchi) style. Crafted with Mount Akagi's underground spring water, it offers a crisp, sharp finish that beautifully complements food. The brand's concept is "a sake that never tires the palate and is meant to be enjoyed with a meal," making it a versatile choice for diverse cuisines.
Kisogawa
One of the established brands of Hijiri Shuzo, representing their commitment to brewing that is deeply integrated with the local community.
Kanto no Hana
The flagship brand since the brewery's founding, named after an anecdote where the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu spoke of gifting the "flower of Kanto" to his vassals. Made with 100% Gunma-grown rice, it features a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity, purposefully designed as a versatile food-pairing sake.
Komamasamune
A classic brand of Hijiri Shuzo that embodies their commitment to traditional sake brewing methods.
Hijiri
A prestige label established by the 7th and 8th generation owners who were trained in the techniques of the Nanbu guild masters. This high-quality brand is produced in limited quantities and is sold only through a select network of authorized partners. It is characterized by meticulous craftsmanship inherited from award-winning master brewers.
Karakkaze
Named after the "Karakkaze" (the piercingly dry winter wind), a famous seasonal feature of Gunma, this brand captures the essence of the region.