Nakagawa Shuzo

Nakagawa Shuzo, founded in 1888 (Meiji 21) in the Wakino district of Nagaoka, Niigata, is a brewery that prides itself on utilizing the rich natural resources of the Nishiyama Hills. Its most distinctive feature is the use of pure spring water drawn from 10 meters underground as its brewing water. This water is famous for appearing a mystical 'blue' when placed in white enamel tanks—a testament to its purity that directly translates into the clarity of the sake. Centered around its flagship brand 'Koshi no Hakugan,' the brewery pursues a unique flavor profile that balances the fullness of rice with a sharp finish, distinguishing itself from typical Niigata 'tanrei' styles. While honoring tradition, its products, such as those that won Grand Gold at the Sake Temperature Competitions, continue to earn high praise in modern drinking scenes.