Kaganoi Shuzo

Kaganoi Shuzo, established in 1650 (Keian 3) at the dawn of the Edo period, is one of Itoigawa's most venerable breweries, with a heritage spanning 18 generations. It once served as a 'Waki-honjin' (secondary inn) for the Kaga Domain's daimyo processions. The lord, Maeda Toshitsune, so admired the sake that he granted the extraordinary permission to use the name 'Kaga'—even though the brewery was outside the Kaga Domain—leading to the name 'Kaganoi.' Distinguishing itself by using rare 'medium-hard water' for brewing, its sake offers a robust core of umami and depth that stands apart from typical Niigata styles. Despite the total loss of the brewery in the 2016 Itoigawa Great Fire, it was rebuilt in 2018. Carrying forward over 370 years of tradition with an indomitable spirit, its renewed passion continues to captivate enthusiasts.