Ichinokura was formed in 1973 through the merger of four Miyagi Prefecture breweries, the oldest of which dated to the 1700s, in the rice-growing center of Matsuyama in Osaki. The 'Mukansa' (non-inspected) designation was a deliberate act of protest: in 1977, when Japan's sake tax system rewarded premium classification with higher taxes passed on to consumers, Ichinokura refused to submit its honjozo for government grading, declaring that the customer, not the government, was the true judge of quality. The Okarakuchi (extra-dry) Honjozo carries that spirit of directness: distilled alcohol is added in small amounts to enhance aroma and sharpen the dry finish rather than to inflate volume. Ichinokura remains the largest brewery in Miyagi Prefecture by production capacity.
Versatile and food-friendly with a smooth, light character.
Learn more about HonjozoPrice information is only available in Japan.
Jun 25, 2025, 5:35 AM