91 / 93
SAKE
91
Manabito (Hinomaru Jozo)
BREWERY OVERVIEW
Founded in 1689, Hinomaru Jozo has been producing sake for the people of Akita for more
than 320 years; in fact, the brewery was founded so long ago that it is the only brewery in the
country allowed to use the Hinomaru name, which is also the name of Japan’s national flag.
LOCATION OF BREWERY
The name Manabito is taken from a local mountain that overlooks the fields where the sake
rice is grown, further emphasizing the importance of that essential ingredient to the brewery.
Many of the farmers who spend the warmer months growing rice then spend their winters as
brewery workers, turning that rice into sake.
BREWING PHILOSOPHY
Its rich history and loyal fan base have allowed the brewery to specialize in premium
production. For the Manabito line, this dedication to excellence means the sakes are bottle-
aged for an extra year before being released. This unique practice, more similar in concept
to wine production, is a source of great pride for the brewery. According to owner Jouji Sato,
the bottle aging prevents oxidation and flavor loss, preserving the quality of these traditional,
refined sakes.
Owned by
:
Jouji Sato
Master Brewer
:
Ryoji Takahashi
Founded in
:
1689
Region
:
Akita
Country
:
Japan
Sake
:
Manabito, Ginjo
Manabito, Kimoto Junmai Ginjo