Celebrate Namazake Day with the Pure Elegance of Kotsuzumi

June 25th is “Nama Sake Day”—a toast to innovation and tradition in Japanese brewing. This commemorative day marks the breakthrough moment in 1984 when Gekkeikan became the first in the sake industry to release a nama sake (unpasteurized sake) that could be safely distributed at room temperature, thanks to groundbreaking ultra-precise filtration technology.

Officially recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2018, Nama Sake Day is the perfect occasion to experience the vibrant, living flavors that only unpasteurized sake can offer.

Introducing Kotsuzumi Nama Junmai Daiginjo:

A Refreshing, Addictive Sweetness You’ll Never Forget

To celebrate this special day, we proudly present Kotsuzumi Nama Junmai Daiginjo, a sake that captures the spirit of freshness and depth. Crafted using Hyogo Kitanishiki rice, known for its soft, easily dissolvable grain, this sake boasts a clean yet richly layered sweetness. The use of ultra-soft well water from Tanba enhances its smooth finish, while its unpasteurized state unlocks an even more expressive fruity aroma and a mouthwatering clarity.

It’s sake in its most vivid form—fresh, elegant, and beautifully addictive.

The Story Behind Kotsuzumi

Kotsuzumi is the signature label of Nishiyama Sake Brewery, a historic brewery nestled in the misty, cold climate of Tanba. The name was bestowed by celebrated haiku poet Kyoshi Takahama and gained literary fame through the prestigious haiku magazine Hototogisu.

At the heart of Kotsuzumi is the craftsmanship of Tanba’s master brewers, whose delicate brewing techniques are passed down through generations. With a devotion to locally grown Hyogo rice and pure, natural well water, Nishiyama Brewery continues to pursue refined elegance in every bottle.

Brewer’s Note

“This is a Junmai Daiginjo made with Hyogo Kitanishiki and left unpasteurized to preserve its vibrant, fruity character. The rice dissolves gently, releasing a sweetness that lingers beautifully on the palate. As a nama sake, its freshness stands out even more. We hope you enjoy this sake, which embodies the very essence of Kotsuzumi.”