Sake Brands
in Gunma
Shinryu
神龍Included in the product lineup as "Fuji Shinryū," this brand features an auspicious dragon motif, symbolizing good fortune.
Kazemakase
風まかせOne of Imai Shuzoten's primary brands, known as "Joshu Kazemakase," it is characterized by a smooth and refined flavor. The name translates to "Left to the Wind," expressing a light and pleasant profile that feels as free and natural as a breeze.
Niitayama
新田山A brand named after the Nitta district of Ota City, reflecting the region's rich natural beauty and historical heritage.
Otoko Isshin
男一心A secondary brand of Bunbuku Shuzo, its name translates to "A Man's Single-Mindedness," representing a strong and dedicated spirit.
KIYOMIZU
KIYOMIZUA 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
榮万寿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
當選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
平井城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
ねむり酒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.
Sambaseki
三波石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
巌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
上州の寒梅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
十代目作右衛門A brand named after the hereditary title of the Takai family head, representing the brewery's long-standing tradition and heritage.
Fukuei
福榮This brand is no longer in production due to the brewery's closure.
Joshukko
上州っ子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
起龍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.
Kisogawa
木曽川One of the established brands of Hijiri Shuzo, representing their commitment to brewing that is deeply integrated with the local community.
Komamasamune
駒正宗A classic brand of Hijiri Shuzo that embodies their commitment to traditional sake brewing methods.
Karakkaze
からっ風Named after the "Karakkaze" (the piercingly dry winter wind), a famous seasonal feature of Gunma, this brand captures the essence of the region.
Irikoma
入駒Another label by Hijiri Shuzo, dedicated to preserving traditional sake-making techniques.
Sakaya Denbe
酒屋 傳兵衛A brand inspired by traditional sake shop trade names, evoking the nostalgia and craftsmanship of the good old days.
Kaze no Uta
風の詩A Tokubetsu Honjozo characterized by a gentle, refreshing mouthfeel reminiscent of a soft breeze. It offers a clean, crisp flavor that is easy to enjoy.
Bokusui no Uta
牧水の詩A brand named after the famous poet Wakayama Bokusui. It is characterized by subtle fruity aromas and a flavor profile that is simultaneously rich, refreshing, and mellow, carrying an elegant literary atmosphere.
Sakuyabi
咲耶美Another distinguished label by Kimusume Shuzo, characterized by its elegant name and refined profile.
Kusatsubushi
草津節A brand named after "Kusatsubushi," the famous folk song of the Kusatsu Hot Springs, embodying the vibrant cultural atmosphere of this renowned tourist destination.