TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tsunan Town, Nakauonuma District, Niigata Prefecture; Representative Director: Kengo Suzuki; hereinafter referred to as “TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY”) will launch the “Gosetsu Set” (郷雪セット), a special package containing 720ml x 3 bottles of sake and the renowned snow of Tsunan, one of the world’s heaviest snowfall areas, in a limited winter release starting February 1, 2025.
Sake brewed only in the snow season
TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY is located in one of the snowiest regions in Niigata Prefecture and only brews sake during the snowy winter months. The cold season allows for optimal microbial control and provides clean air, ensuring high-quality sake production. Additionally, the brewery, enveloped in snow, functions as a natural refrigerator, creating the perfect storage environment for sake. The abundant supply of pure snowmelt water also contributes to the sake’s pristine quality.
During winter, local farmers, having completed the rice harvest, engage in sake brewing. Life in this heavy snowfall region is challenging, requiring mutual support among residents. After shoveling snow, sake serves as an essential part of daily life, deepening communication and bonds within the community.
A gift of snow-covered sake from Tsunan
Snow and sake are inseparable, yet only those who visit the brewery get to experience the snow firsthand. To allow sake lovers to enjoy the experience of Tsunan’s winter, we have created the “Gosetsu Set,” which includes three special bottles of sake packed in freshly fallen snow from our brewery.
Tsunan Town, one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall areas
Even in light years, Tsunan sees about 2 meters of snow, and in heavier winters, up to 4 meters can accumulate.
What is the “Gosetsu Set”?
From Tsunan Town, we deliver three bottles of sake—”GO” and “Tsunan”—carefully packed in the snow from our brewery. When you open the package, you will be greeted by pure white snow, bringing the atmosphere of the snow country into your home.
Contents of the “Gosetsu Set”
The set includes three bottles of sake brewed in the snow country, packed in a box full of Tsunan’s snow:
- Sake ①: “GO DINER” Junmai Daiginjo 720ml x 1
- Sake ②: “GO DOLCE” Junmai Ginjo 720ml x 1
- Sake ③: “Tsunan Ogon” Freshly Pressed Unfiltered Raw Junmai Sake 720ml x 1 (Limited Edition)
- Fresh Snow: Each sake bottle is packed in an insulated box filled with freshly fallen snow from Tsunan.
“GO” and “Tsunan” – Sake brewed in Tsunan
The “GO” series is crafted using the pure mountain water of Tsunan and the special sake rice “Gohyakumangoku,” grown on the town’s river terraces. These elements, combined with expert brewing techniques, result in sake that is both accessible and refined. The name “GO” reflects our commitment to preserving the region’s heritage, including Akiyamago, a historic village that has maintained traditional lifestyles for generations. Our sake brewing is part of our efforts to sustain and support this community.
GO DINER
- Rice: Gohyakumangoku (Niigata Prefecture)
- Ingredients: Rice (Niigata Prefecture), Rice Koji (Niigata Prefecture)
- Polishing Ratio: 50%
- Alcohol Content: 15.5%
- Volume: 720ml
Niigata is known for its exceptional food-pairing sake. “GO DINER” is crafted specifically to complement meals, enhancing flavors and making dining a delightful experience.
GO DOLCE
- Rice: Gohyakumangoku (Niigata Prefecture)
- Ingredients: Rice (Niigata Prefecture), Rice Koji (Niigata Prefecture)
- Polishing Ratio: 55%
- Alcohol Content: 13%
- Volume: 720ml
A fruity and sweet sake, “GO DOLCE” is as enjoyable as a dessert, offering a rich, indulgent experience.
Tsunan Ogon Freshly Pressed Unfiltered Raw Junmai Sake
- Rice: 100% Tsunan-grown Gohyakumangoku
- Ingredients: Rice (Niigata Prefecture), Rice Koji (Niigata Prefecture)
- Polishing Ratio: 60%
- Alcohol Content: 17%
- Volume: 720ml
This sake, freshly pressed in December 2024, is available only during winter. It features a fresh and rich aroma, characteristic of unfiltered raw sake.
About Tsunan, a town of hidden treasures
Tsunan Town, Niigata Prefecture, sits on the border with Nagano Prefecture and is home to about 9,000 residents. TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY is nestled in the mountainous region, where wild serows occasionally wander into our premises.
One of the world’s snowiest inhabited areas
With 3 to 4 meters of annual snowfall, Tsunan is among the heaviest snowfall regions globally.
Japan’s largest river terrace
Located along the Shinano River, Tsunan features Japan’s largest river terrace, shaped by its tributaries. Recognized as part of the Naeba Geopark, it is a land rich in water and fertile soil.
Renowned pure water and natural landmarks
Tsunan is home to “Ryugakubo,” one of Japan’s 100 best water sources, and “Mount Naeba,” one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains. The pristine water is also bottled and sold nationwide.
Field of Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale
Tsunan, along with neighboring Tokamachi, is part of the “Echigo-Tsumari” region, a host area for the world-famous contemporary art festival.
The secluded paradise of Akiyamago
Located along the Nakatsu River, Akiyamago is a remote settlement, surrounded by steep mountains and deep snow. TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY is situated at the gateway to this historical village.
TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY’s Role as a Regional Brewery
TSUNAN SAKE BREWERY was founded with investment from local farmers, the JA cooperative, and the Tsunan municipal government, making it a rare example of a community-driven sake brewery. We embrace regenerative business practices that harmonize with nature, ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Brew For Future – Brewing a Symbiotic Future
- Circular Economy – Sustainable brewing practices that recycle resources.
- Local Optimization – Coexisting with the unique characteristics of the region.
- Open to Diverse Values – Engaging with various perspectives to expand our reach.
Enjoy the flavors of sake with the breathtaking scenery of Tsunan.
About Tsunan Sake Brewery
Tsunan Sake Brewery is located in Akinari, Tsunan Town, Nakauonuma District, Niigata Prefecture. The area is known for its heavy snowfall, and the brewery uses natural spring water sourced from the nearby 2,000-meter-high mountains. The sake is crafted using locally grown “Gohyaku Mangoku” and “Uonuma Koshihikari” rice, with a focus on sustainable brewing that coexists with nature. The brand concept, “Brew for Future – Brewing for a Sustainable Future,” reflects this commitment. Under a new leadership structure since 2023, Tsunan Sake Brewery aims to create new value through the fusion of traditional sake brewing and science, with a focus on expanding its presence in international markets.
https://tsunan-sake.com/
