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Misuzu Shuzo

Shiojiri, Nagana Prefecture

Brewery Story

Founded in 1893 in Seba, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, Misuzu Shuzo has been producing sake for more than 130 years in one of Japan's most distinctive brewing environments. Situated at an elevation of around 750 metres, the brewery benefits from cool mountain air, soft spring water flowing from the surrounding hills and premium sake rice grown in Nagano.

Today, the brewery remains proudly independent, with the brewery owner also serving as Toji (Master Brewer). This hands-on approach allows every batch to be crafted with exceptional care, preserving over a century of tradition while expressing the character of Shinshu's natural landscape in every bottle.

Brewing Philosophy and Production

Misuzu Shuzo is guided by a simple ambition: to create sake that leaves a lasting impression. As a small independent brewery, it prioritises quality over quantity, crafting every batch by hand with meticulous care and attention.

Brewing takes place at an elevation of around 750 metres, where the cool mountain climate, soft spring water from the hills behind the brewery and locally grown Miyama Nishiki sake rice provide ideal conditions. From rice preparation and koji cultivation to yeast starter development and fermentation, every stage is carefully monitored and adjusted according to the character of each brew.

The brewery owner also serves as Toji (Master Brewer), personally overseeing production while working in harmony with Shinshu’s natural environment. By drawing out the full potential of its local ingredients, Misuzu Shuzo continues to create elegant, deeply satisfying sake that lingers in the memory of those who drink it.

Style and Signature Expressions

Misuzu Shuzo’s sake is characterised by its clear, pure taste, making the most of Shinshu’s cool climate and natural bounty. Slow, low-temperature fermentation brings out elegant aromas and delicate umami, while allowing the natural richness of the rice to shine through its clean and refreshing finish.

The brewery’s signature brand, “Misuzu,” is crafted to offer a harmonious taste that pairs well with food. Rather than being overly bold, it is distinguished by refined umami and a crisp, clean finish born from careful craftsmanship.

Through the meticulous attention to detail possible at a small brewery, and brewing that reflects the character of Shinshu, Misuzu Shuzo has established its own distinctive style: sake that never becomes tiring to drink and that you will want to enjoy again and again.

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