Embracing Tradition, Fostering Innovation

Founded in 1873, Niizawa Sake Brewery embodies a blend of time-honoured sake brewing techniques and innovative practices that set it apart in the industry. The brewery thrives on a spirit of collaboration and constant learning, where brewers of all backgrounds come together to enhance their skills and craft the finest sake​.

 

Niizawa Sake Brewery is recognised for its groundbreaking rice polishing technology, which achieves an astounding polishing rate of 0.85%, the highest in the world. This proprietary technique helps remove unwanted components from the rice, preserving the original umami flavour and elevating the taste of the sake​​.

 

The brewery's commitment to improvement is unyielding. Every day, they refine their techniques, ensuring their sake continuously improves. This ethos is embodied in their belief that "today's sake is better than yesterday's, and tomorrow's sake will be better than today's"​.

 

 

 

 

Quality Control and Distinctive Practices

Niizawa Sake Brewery takes quality control seriously. Most of their sake is stored at -5℃ to maintain the best possible condition. This practice extends to all bottled sake, ranging from premium sakes to cup sakes, ensuring prolonged freshness and optimal taste when opened by the consumer​.

The brewery also conducts a "Fresh Rotation" initiative once a year. This involves visiting distributors and restaurants nationwide to collect and replace products displayed in different seasons. It's a valuable opportunity for the brewery to engage directly with distributors, listen to customer opinions, and bring these insights back to the brewery​.

 

 

 

The Origin of Hakurakusei

Brewing of Hakurakusei, the "ultimate food sake", began in 2002. This sought-after brand was named after the legend of Ikezuki, a famous horse in the Sambongi area. The goal of Hakurakusei is to create a sake that enhances the entire eating experience, becoming an indispensable aspect of any meal​.

 

Despite the challenges faced during the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, Niizawa Sake Brewery was able to recover and continue its operations. This resilience and commitment to their craft is a testament to the passion and determination that drives the brewery​.

 

 

Conclusion

Niizawa Sake Brewery, the makers of Hakurakusei, stands as a beacon of tradition, innovation, and resilience in the sake industry. Their relentless pursuit of excellence and unwavering commitment to quality make their sake a sought-after choice for both connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of sake.