Sake Brands
in Ishikawa
Takasago
"Takasago" is the flagship brand of Kanaya Shuzoten, characterized by a light, crisp, and fruity profile that is rare for Ishikawa sakes. The name is derived from the auspicious word 'Takasago,' giving it a prestigious air suitable for celebratory occasions. While drawing out the gentle inherent sweetness of the rice, its light, wine-like drinking experience continues to fascinate gourmets in Japan and abroad.
Kitamiyuki
Tomoshiraga
Haruyama
"Haruyama" is a traditional brand that has evolved alongside the sea of Nanao since its founding in 1865. Characterized by the light, crisp, and dry profile typical of the Hokuriku region, it is cherished as a premier food-pairing sake that enhances the flavor of fresh seafood from Nanao Port. With its clean finish and a subtle hint of inherent rice sweetness in the aftertaste, this sake evokes the rich natural bounty of Noto.
Tenpyo
"Tenpyo" is a rare aged sake brand designed for long-term maturation. Named after the flourishing Tenpyo culture of the Nara period, it pursues the noble flavor born from the accumulation of time. Its amber-colored drops offer a syrupy texture and rich aromas reminiscent of nuts and honey, making it a supreme delicacy that can even be enjoyed as a dessert wine after a meal.
Tsuru to Fuku
"Tsuru to Fuku" is a special brand co-brewed by Tsuruno Shuzoten ('Tsuru' for crane) and Kanazawa's Fukumitsuya ('Fuku' for fortune) with prayers for reconstruction following the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake. Merging the bonds and techniques of both breweries, every drop carries an indomitable determination to pass Noto's brewing culture to the next generation and deep gratitude to all supporters.
Taniizumi
"Taniizumi" is the flagship brand of Tsuruno Shuzoten, symbolizing the pure natural bounty of Noto. Harmonizing a gentle, sophisticated aroma with the mellow umami of rice, its flavor possesses the clarity of a spring bubbling from the Noto mountains. The rustic warmth of the hand-pressed Noto Washi label is another reason it remains a favorite among sake enthusiasts.
Torai
"Torai" is a brand named after the 'Nobori-rai' (ascending lightning) phenomenon seen in Noto's winter—lightning that rises from the sea to the sky. Representing a pursuit of shocking deliciousness and crispness, it was also the first 'try' (challenge) for master brewer Kaoruko Tsuruno. It is characterized by its dignified strength and a powerful, extra-dry finish that complements any dish.
Chikuha N
"Chikuha N" is a fresh and daring project brand where university students—the future of Noto—participate in everything from brewing to sales. Merging youthful sensibilities with the brewery's expertise, it embodies the new sense of flavor and design sought by the next generation. It is a new form of sake filled with hope, born from a deep love for the Noto homeland.
Chikuha
"Chikuha" is the flagship brand of Kazuma Shuzo, a multi-award-winning sake that allows you to experience the terroir of Oku-Noto with all five senses. With a strict focus on Noto-grown rice and water, it pursues the 'softness' of super-soft water brewing and an 'accompaniment umami' that lets the cuisine take center stage. Whether served chilled for a refreshing feel or warmed to highlight rice's plump richness, it is an essential sake for any dining experience.
Sen
"Sen" is a brand that explores the ultimate potential of 'Ishikawa-mon,' a rice variety unique to Ishikawa. Brewed with an innovative approach that breaks conventional molds, it is characterized by a striking umami that spreads like a 'flash' (Sen) of inspiration the moment it hits the palate, followed by a beautiful acidic finish. This rare and stylish sake is available only at selected boutiques.
Shinhou
NOTO
"NOTO" is a premium, terroir-focused line that shares the beauty and pride of Noto with the world. Drawing out the unique character of strictly selected Noto sake rice, it achieves the elegant aroma of a Junmai Daiginjo with a silky-smooth texture. Evaluated highly at global culinary symposiums, its flavor is truly a drop that encapsulates the essence of Noto's nature in a bottle.
Oeyama
"Oeyama" is the spirited brand of Matsunami Shuzo, named with the wish for people to drink together as grandly as 'Shuten-doji', the legendary ogre of Mount Oeyama in Kyoto. Brewed with Noto-grown rice and water from a century-old well, its flavor features a combination of deep umami and clean crispness, pairing perfectly with Noto's seafood. This iconic sake represents the indomitable spirit of Noto and remains deeply rooted in the local community.
Noto Kishu
"Noto Kishu" is a brand inspired by the majestic image of the Noto sea and ships setting sail. Pursuing a drinking experience that is powerful yet refreshing, much like a ship cutting through rough waves, this sake encapsulates respect for Noto's maritime culture and a strong determination for new challenges.
Tsuduranonami
Taikei
"Taikei" is a brand that has been loved for over a century by the fishermen of Suzu as the sake for sharing the 'joy of a big catch' (Taikei). While making the most of the deep inherent umami of the rice, it draws to a clean finish, maximizing the rich flavors of fresh seafood. Carrying the pride of the local community, it is a sake that lets you feel the vibrant energy of the Suzu sea.
Hatsuzakura
"Hatsuzakura" is a brand that pursues a pure and warm flavor, much like the first cherry blossoms (Hatsuzakura) that bloom after a long winter. The lineup, centered on the locally beloved Honjozo style, offers the gentle sweetness of rice whether served warm or chilled. It is the 'ideal form of evening sake' that quietly accompanies the simple joys of everyday life.
Notozakura
Sogen
"Sogen" is the brand that symbolizes the pride of Oku-Noto, brewed by the very birthplace of Noto Toji. Backed by over 250 years of history, it utilizes long-term, low-temperature fermentation to slowly extract the full potential of the rice, achieving a deep, mellow umami and a sophisticated aroma. Its pinnacle, 'Dai-Ginjo Sogen,' is featured in ANA's international first-class service and is beloved worldwide as the ultimate expression of orthodox sake.