Sohomare Shuzo

Sohomare Shuzo (惣誉酒造), located in Ichikai Town, Tochigi Prefecture, has a history spanning over 150 years. The brewery’s roots trace back to a family that originally operated in Hino Town, Shiga Prefecture, during the Edo period, before relocating to Tochigi.

The brewery is renowned for its focus on the traditional Kimoto (生酛) brewing method. Their signature sake, Sohomare Kimoto Tokubetsu Junmai (惣誉 生酛仕込 特別純米), is characterized by a complex sweetness, robust umami, and a distinctive acidity derived from lactic acid fermentation. The Kimoto method involves grinding steamed rice, koji, and water to naturally cultivate lactic acid bacteria, requiring careful temperature control and intricate processes.

Sohomare Shuzo uses high-quality water from the Kinugawa river system (鬼怒川水系) and selects premium rice for its sake production. For even its standard sake, they use Yamadanishiki (山田錦) from top-rated regions and locally contracted Gohyakumangoku (五百万石) rice, ensuring excellence in every bottle.

The brewery has received numerous awards at events such as the Kanto-Shinetsu Regional Sake Competition and the National New Sake Awards. Souhomare Shuzo continues to captivate local sake enthusiasts with its dedication to quality and tradition while maintaining its reputation as a beloved regional producer.