Craft & Estate Portfolio Book

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

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SAKE