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Koimari Shuzo

Imari, Saga Prefecture

Brewery Story

Koimari Shuzo is a small sake brewery located in Imari, Saga Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu. The brewery was founded in 1909 by the Maeda family and remains family-run today, continuing a brewing tradition that has developed over more than a century.

 

Known for producing expressive, characterful sake, Koimari balances traditional brewing methods with a modern sensitivity to flavour and style.

 

The name Koimari reflects the historic port town of Imari, known for its beautiful Japanese porcelain ware. 

Brewing Philosophy and Production

Koimari Shuzo brews sake with care and precision, following a philosophy of flavour and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Sake rice is washed in small batches of 10–15kg, with timing measured to the second. Koji production focuses on drawing out the character of the rice, while fermentation takes place slowly at low temperatures using soft water from the Ryumon river system.

 

The brewery works closely with local farmers and the JA Imari Sake Rice Research Association to cultivate rice varieties such as Yamada Nishiki and Saga no Hana, supporting stable local production.

 

Koji is produced using box-koji methods, and the brewery uses a medium-temperature fast-fermentation yeast starter, introduced in 2013 to improve consistency. Fermentation is monitored through both modern analysis and the sensory judgement of experienced brewers.

Style and Signature Expressions

While rooted in tradition, Koimari Shuzo has embraced a modern approach to presentation and design. Contemporary bottle styles sit alongside classic brewing techniques.

This balance has helped the brewery appeal to a new generation of sake drinkers. One example is the Nomannne Cup range, single-serve sake presented in cups made from Imari porcelain, referencing the town’s long history of ceramic production.

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