Hakkai Jozo

Hakkai Jozo (八海醸造), also known for its flagship sake brand Hakkaisan (八海山), was founded in 1922 in Nagamori, Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. The brewery draws inspiration from the rich natural environment of the Uonuma region, known for its abundant snowfall, which plays a crucial role in their brewing process.

The brewery is renowned for its production of tanrei karakuchi (淡麗辛口) style sake, characterized by a clean and dry flavor profile. Their brewing methods emphasize precision and quality, using techniques typically reserved for daiginjo-level sake. The brewery also incorporates rice varieties like Yamadanishiki (山田錦) and Gohyakumangoku (五百万石), polishing the rice to a high degree to achieve purity in their sake.

One of Hakkai Jozo's key innovations is the use of a Yukimuro (雪室), or snow storage room, where sake is aged in a natural, low-temperature environment. This method helps create sake with a smooth and mellow character, as seen in their Junmai Ginjo Yukimuro Chozo Sannen (純米吟醸 雪室貯蔵三年), aged for three years in this unique setting.

In addition to sake, Hakkai Jozo has expanded its product offerings to include shochu, umeshu (plum wine), craft beer, and even whisky. This diversification reflects the brewery's commitment to innovation while honoring traditional techniques. As they continue to explore new horizons, Hakkai Jozo remains a key player in Japan’s fermentation industry.