Sake Brands
in Niigata

Sogakari is a miraculous blended sake created to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Echigo Kenshin SAKE Matsuri. In a luxurious and daring feat, all 14 breweries of the Takada branch provided their signature flagship brands to be unified in a single bottle. The name 'Sogakari' refers to Uesugi Kenshin's military tactic of an all-out coordinated charge, symbolizing the collective power and determination of every brewery involved. This flavor, an essence of the Joetsu region's brewing expertise, achieves a remarkable depth and harmony while allowing individual characters to resonate. It is a one-of-a-kind commemorative brand that celebrates a historical milestone and can never be reproduced.

Kurumagakari is a highly sought-after limited brand available exclusively at the Echigo Kenshin SAKE Matsuri. Its name is derived from the 'Kurumagakari no Jin' (Winding Wheel Formation), a famous tactical maneuver favored by the warlord Uesugi Kenshin, where troops are continuously rotated to maintain pressure. Reflecting this tactic, the brand features a unique production style where a different member brewery from the Takada branch takes a 'turn' to brew it each year. Because the brewer changes annually, fans can enjoy a different personality under the same 'Kurumagakari' label every year. Crafted primarily with Niigata-grown rice and filled with the passion of local brewers, this rare sake symbolizes the fervor of the festival and the strong bonds of the Joetsu community.

Choryo is the flagship brand of Takahashi Shuzo, bearing the elegant classical alias of Nagaoka City. It is brewed using the skills of traditional 'Echigo Toji' within the historic red-brick brewery, designated as a National Cultural Property. The flavor embodies the quintessential Niigata 'tanrei karakuchi' (light and dry) style—clean and crisp, yet revealing a subtle umami within its cool clarity. As a perfect companion to daily meals and a cup that narrates local history, Choryo carries the pride of Nagaoka into the modern era as a truly traditional local sake.

Yaichi is a special brand named with deep respect for Aizu Yaichi, a world-renowned calligrapher, poet, and scholar born in Nagaoka. The labels feature Yaichi's magnificent calligraphy, creating a true fusion of art and sake. While maintaining the characteristic 'tanrei' (light) elegance of Niigata, it pursues a sophisticated flavor that is dignified yet leaves a profound, lingering finish—much like Yaichi's own works. This sake is not just to be drunk, but to be experienced while reflecting on ancient culture. Highly regarded for its intellectual appeal, it is a perfect choice for gifting or enriching special moments.

Harumachi Usagi captures the snowy landscape awaiting spring, represented by an adorable rabbit. This sake is gentle as spring sunshine, with a subtle sweetness and vibrant aroma. Pure and fresh like snowmelt, it is perfect for celebratory spring occasions.

Kawasemi no Tabi is a pure, translucent brand inspired by kingfishers at a nearby stream. It offers a smooth, clear finish like water in flight. The natural umami and gentle sweetness of the rice evoke a sense of calm beauty.

Koshi no Terutora is a powerful brand named after the childhood name of Uesugi Kenshin. Characterized by a dignified dry finish reminiscent of a Sengoku warlord, its robust flavor embodies the spirit and history of the Niigata region.

A playful collaboration with the popular anime 'The Genie Family.' This sake captures the character's friendly charm with a light, enjoyable flavor for all.

Yukikabuto represents the resilience of snow country and samurai pride. It features a dignified clarity with a deep, layered flavor that hides the strength of spring waiting beneath the snow.

One of Minogawa Shuzo's signature brands, made with Omachi rice from Okayama Prefecture. It was known as a masterpiece with the deep umami and richness characteristic of Omachi rice, winning multiple gold medals at the Annual Japan Sake Awards. Even after the brewery's closure, part of the stock is being sold as ice-aged sake by Naeba Shuzo.

A sake named after the Crested Ibis (Toki), a symbol of Niigata, and one of the brands formerly produced by Minogawa Shuzo. It aimed to express the local nature and culture through its brewing style.

The flagship brand bearing the brewery's name, embodying traditional brewing using Nagaoka's pure water and Niigata-grown rice. Following the closure, Naeba Shuzo has been selling rare vintage bottles, such as the 1990 production, as ice-aged sake.

Koshi Meijo's flagship brand, a sake known for its solid richness and deep umami. Its primary characteristic is a satisfying, full-bodied profile that stands apart from the typical 'tanrei' trend of Niigata. Offering a wide range from premium Junmai Ginjo to everyday Junmai, it has earned high praise and silver medals at international competitions.

Koshi no Kawa is a brand created to express the rich nature and regional character of Tochio. It pursues a flavor that complements the local food culture, cherished as a bottle that adds color to the daily dining table.

Ichijo is a limited brand that encapsulates Koshi Meijo's utmost dedication. It is made using 100% organic rice grown with care in the terraced fields of the Tochio Ikazuchi district. Infused with a craftsman's soul that prioritizes the 'perfect drop' over cost or efficiency, its pure and profound flavor has earned immense trust from local aficionados.

Yamashiroya is a brand bearing the name of the house founded in 1845, which is one of the roots of Koshi Meijo. While paying respect to its history, it plays a role in passing down traditional techniques to the modern era. It pursues the universal appeal of brewing that remains beloved across generations.

Honsho is a brand characterized by a powerful flavor that leverages the regional characteristics of Tochio. It pursues a 'umami-forward' profile that sets it apart from Niigata's light and dry style. A drink that allows you to feel the energy of the rice with every sip.

Koshi no Senroku is an auspicious brand brewed by Morohashi Shuzo. Its name, literally meaning 'wishing for a thousand blessings,' makes it perfect for celebratory occasions or as a gift for loved ones. The gentle aroma and the smooth, translucent flavor characteristic of Morohashi Shuzo bring a sense of peace and joy to those who drink it.

Koshi no Kagetora is the flagship brand representing the tradition and pride of Morohashi Shuzo. It is named after 'Nagao Kagetora,' the early name of warlord Uesugi Kenshin, who spent his youth in Tochio. Brewed with soft spring water from 'Todo no Mori' and an ancient well on the premises using 100% Niigata-grown sake rice, it is characterized by a gentle aroma and a dignified, crisp finish. Despite being dry, it has no rough edges, offering an incredibly smooth and silky mouthfeel that almost reminds one of rice juice, captivating fans across Japan.

Echigo Sekkobai is the flagship brand of Hasegawa Shuzo. Its name was given by the legendary composer Minoru Endo, who personally calligraphed the characters for the brewery. Brewed with meticulous care using traditional handmade methods in cellars dating back to the Meiji and Taisho eras, this sake reflects the heritage of Nagaoka. Today, the careful craftsmanship of the women who lead the brewery shines through, resulting in a flavor that is typically Niigata-lean but with a distinctive gentle softness. In addition to being a traditional local sake, the brand offers modern styles like the 'Tabineko' seasonal series, which fits seamlessly onto contemporary dining tables.