Chiyonosono

Founded in 1896 in Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Chiyonosono Shuzo draws water from the subterranean flows of the Aso volcanic caldera's outer rim, a soft water source that encourages slow, gentle fermentation. The brewery has a history of independent innovation — pioneering pure-rice brewing before it became mainstream, and aging premium daiginjo in cork-sealed bottles in the style of fine wine — and has earned recognition at the National New Sake Competition as Kumamoto Prefecture's sole entrant.