Utsunomiya Shuzo

Founded in 1871, Utsunomiya Shuzo is a venerable brewery that has continued to make sake in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, for over 150 years.
Their brewing philosophy is "Magokoro Ikkon" (A cup of sincerity), with the deep belief that the attitude of the brewer is reflected in the sake. They have evolved with the times while inheriting traditional techniques. The brewing water is soft groundwater from the Kinugawa River, enriched by melted snow from the Nikko mountains, which gives their sake, "Shikisakura," a smooth mouthfeel and a clean finish.
The brewery actively uses local sake rice from Tochigi Prefecture, such as "Tochigi no Hoshi," "Gohyakumangoku," "Yumesasara," and "Asahi no Yume," and utilizes yeast developed in Tochigi to pursue a true local sake identity.
The flagship brand, "Shikisakura," was originally named "Shiki no Tomo" but was renamed based on a poem composed by the founder. The name embodies the wish for the sake to bloom beautifully like cherry blossoms throughout the four seasons. It has been served in JAL's international First Class and has received high international acclaim, winning numerous awards in domestic and overseas competitions.