Brands

"Kikukoma" was named by the fourth-generation owner, Kyujiro Miura, combining "kiku" (chrysanthemum) with "koma" (horse), a specialty of Gonohe. The M2 yeast used here is the prototype of the famous "Kyokai No. 10 yeast" now widely used by breweries across Japan. It is known for its low acidity and refined ginjo aroma with fruity notes reminiscent of melon or banana. Compared to other yeasts of its time, No. 10 yeast is characterized by its exceptionally low acidity (especially malic acid) and high aromatic profile. This makes it ideal for both fragrant Ginjo sake and smooth Junmai sake. The breweries "Hachitsuru" and "Kikukoma" in Aomori Prefecture are regarded as the birthplaces of the No. 10 yeast. To this day, Kikukoma Shuzo continues to brew with "Kyokai No. 10" (the successor to M2) and "M310" yeast, preserving the legacy and flavors passed down through generations.

Ryu is a special limited brand established in 2000 to pursue the infinite individuality of Japanese sake. Its name carries the meaning of 'surging upward,' reflecting an ambition to reach even greater heights while honoring the flagship 'Tanzawasan.' Its most defining feature is the refusal to blend, bottling sake from individual tanks to preserve and celebrate their unique character—much like a single-cask whisky. Connoisseurs are drawn to the dramatic, direct experience of the specific rice variety, terroir, and yeast profile of each distinct batch. As a 100% Junmai sake, Ryu offers a more refined sharpness and a robust umami that continues to captivate serious sake enthusiasts.

Tanzawasan is the legendary flagship brand of Kawanishiya Shuzoten and a monument to aged Junmai sake. Primarily using pristine meltwater from the Tanzawa Mountain range and local 'Wakamizu' rice nurtured through 30 years of partnership with local farmers, it purely expresses the philosophy: 'Sake enhances the food, and food enhances the sake.' Characterized by a mellow umami achieved through over a year of low-temperature aging and a supple acidity, its potential as 'kan-sake' (warmed sake) is overwhelming. Having won consecutive awards at major tasting competitions, it enjoys absolute trust from professional sommeliers and gourmets as the ultimate food-pairing sake.

Hotoku Musume is a sincere and warm brand that conveys the 'Hotoku' philosophy of Sontoku Ninomiya, the great sage born in the Ashigara region. Projecting the spirit of 'Diligence, Economy, and Sharing' taught by Ninomiya into the brewing process, it is finished as an unadorned yet resilient Junmai sake. Brewed with care using the rich waters of Tanzawa and the bounties of the land, its flavor is an offering that stays close to local history and culture. While it lacks flashy character, it possesses a profound sapor that seeps into the heart with every sip, making it an endearing cup that quietly speaks of regional pride and tradition.

MOZART is a brand by Kanei Shuzoten that evokes a mystical resonance between music and brewing. Based on the concept of 'local sake raised by Mozart's Lullaby,' it employs a unique 'musical brewing' method, playing Mozart's melodies to the fermentation tanks 24 hours a day. This is founded on research suggesting that musical rhythms and vibrations activate yeast, lending exceptional mellowness and harmony to the sake. The resulting flavor, a fusion of Hadano's famous spring water and the movements of the genius composer, is exceptionally elegant and well-balanced, attracting attention from enthusiasts worldwide as a cup that stimulates the senses.

Otoriizumi is an auspicious brand combining the 'Phoenix' (Otori), a mythical bird symbolizing a good omen, and 'Spring' (Izumi), the source of life. It carries the wish to be a spring as noble and pure as a phoenix emerging from the Tanzawa foothills. Utilizing the mineral-balanced spring water of the Hadano Basin, it simple and luxuriously draws out the best of its ingredients, resulting in a dignified and elegant character. Filled with refreshing and powerful vitality, it is a cup perfect for special occasions and celebratory gatherings.

Sasa no Tsuyu is a brand that expresses the purity of a single drop of dew resting on a bamboo leaf in the morning mist, linked to the legends of the Shirasasa Inari Shrine. Specialized in maximizing the translucent beauty of Hadano's famous water, it offers a light and vibrant mouthfeel. It provides an unblemished freshness, as if carrying a crystal of nature directly to your palate. Combining a modesty that does not interfere with food and a gentleness that seamlessly seeps into the body, it allows you to enjoy the pure beauty of Tanzawa's nature with all five senses.

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 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.

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.

"Tonami no Sakura" is one of the brand lines from Momokawa Co., Ltd.

Hatsuhi Masamune is an auspicious brand by Hasegawa Shuzo, celebrating new beginnings and prosperity. Named with the wish to brighten people's hearts like the first sunrise of the year, it delivers joy to the dining table. While preserving traditional methods, it offers a sincere, timeless flavor long cherished by the local community.