A Sake Brewery Steeped in History and Tradition
Founded in 1839, the name "Fuku-nishiki" is a combination of auspicious "fuku" (fortune) and "nishiki" (brocade), symbolizing the brewery's location at the entrance of the path to Hokezan Ichijoji Temple, where the view of Mount Hokezan resembles a beautiful brocade.
Nestled in Kasai City, in the heart of Hyogo Prefecture's western Harima Plain, a renowned producer of top-quality sake rice, Fuku-nishiki is dedicated to crafting sake using 100% locally grown rice. Blessed with access to some of Japan's finest Yamada Nishiki rice, the brewery also benefits from the passion of young, enthusiastic farmers who are actively cultivating not only Yamada Nishiki but also a variety of other sake rice varieties.
Drawing inspiration from the local climate, terroir, and the deep connections with the community, Fuku-nishiki has been producing sake beloved by locals for over 180 years since its inception.
Beyond Yamada Nishiki: Embracing Diverse Rice Varieties
In addition to the highly regarded Yamada Nishiki, Fuku-nishiki cultivates over five varieties of sake rice, including strains that were revived and improved upon, predating the development of Yamada Nishiki by over 80 years. To fully express the unique characteristics of each rice variety, the brewery has developed its own "Fuku-nishiki style kimoto-zukuri" brewing method. This technique, meticulously tailored to the regional climate, utilizes the traditional kimoto-zukuri method that has thrived in Hyogo Prefecture for centuries.
A Symphony of Umami and Harmony
Fuku-nishiki's pursuit of umami-rich sake results in a delicate balance of flavors that complement cuisine without overpowering it. The harmonious balance of acidity further enhances the overall drinking experience.
Hyogo Prefecture, where Fuku-nishiki is located, offers an abundance of both seafood and mountain delicacies, making it a culinary paradise. The region's cuisine is known for its light and subtle flavors, often featuring fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, mushrooms, and chicken.
Fuku-nishiki's sake, carefully crafted to complement this culinary heritage, is characterized by its clean, umami-laden profile with a refreshing acidity and a lingering yet crisp finish, perfectly suited to the flavors of Harima cuisine.
Junsei: A Bold Exploration of Unfiltered Sake
In 2014, the brewery's 8th-generation kuramoto(brewery owner), Mr. Inaoka Takayuki, launched "Junsei," a new brand born from his desire to create sake that resonates deeply with drinkers. Having felt that Fuku-nishiki's sake, while delicious, lacked individuality, Mr. Inaoka embarked on a journey to craft sake that truly speaks to the heart.
Junsei embodies the essence of kimoto-zukuri, remaining unfiltered and using only the upper portion of the fermented mash. This commitment to quality reflects the brewery's unwavering pursuit of excellence, constantly refining their techniques while embracing innovation without fear of risk.
Fuku-nishiki's dedication to tradition, innovation, and the pursuit of exceptional sake has earned them a well-deserved reputation as a cornerstone of Japanese sake brewing. Their passion for quality and deep connection to the local terroir shine through in every sip, making Fuku-nishiki sake a true treasure to be savored.
