Tonoike Brewery: A Legacy of Excellence in Japanese Sake
Established in 1829 in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Tonoike Brewery has a rich history rooted in the art of sake making. In 1937, Ichigorou Tonoike, the fifth son of the founding family, established a branch in Mashiko, naming it "Tonoike Brewery." The brewery's initial brand was "Yachiyozuru," later changed to the now-renowned "Sanran."
Current President Shigeki Tonoike, the third generation, has expanded the brewery's offerings beyond traditional sake, crafting a diverse range of products including shochu (Japanese distilled spirits), liqueurs, and doburoku (unfiltered sake).
In 2012, Tonoike launched its second brand, "Bo:," as a bold venture into the future of sake. With a focus on international expansion, Bo: embodies the brewery's dedication to innovation and quality. The brand's name, "Sanran," meaning "brilliant light," reflects the brewery's aspiration to bring radiance and vitality to the lives of its patrons.
Since 2015, the brewery has been led by Makoto Ono, a skilled brewmaster holding both Shimono Toji and Nanbu Toji certifications. His expertise, combined with the brewery's young and passionate team of sake makers, has propelled Tonouchi to new heights.
Tonoike's unwavering commitment to excellence has been recognized through numerous accolades, including six consecutive gold medals at the Zenkoku Shinshu Kanpyokai(Most historical sake competition) and over 40 international awards. In 2019, the brewery was bestowed with the Emerald Award at the All-American Sake Competition, an honor reserved for a single outstanding producer. Additionally, Tonoike consistently ranks among the top 15 breweries in the prestigious "World Sake Brewery Rankings."
Bo: - A New Era of Sake
Bo: represents Tonoike's exploration of the future of sake, encompassing both connoisseur-worthy expressions and sake as a cultural cornerstone. Its refreshingly clear and delicately sweet profile, reminiscent of a vast, open vista, will undoubtedly captivate your palate. The name "Bo:" playfully alludes to the Italian word "buono," meaning "delicious."
Unfiltered and bottled at 16% alcohol, Bo: sake is crafted from pure rice, devoid of added alcohol. Each expression is an ideal accompaniment to meals, characterized by a vibrant acidity that cuts through rich flavors.
Brewmaster Makoto Ono: A Passion for Sake Making
A certified Sake Brewer 1st Class and holder of both Nanbu Toji and Shimono Toji qualifications, Ono brings a wealth of experience to Tonoike. Prior to joining the brewery in 2010, he honed his skills over nine years at a Saitama-based sake producer and three years at an Akita brewery, specializing in kimoto-style sake.
Ono's deep-rooted passion for artisanal sake making led him to pursue a hands-on approach, becoming Tonoike's brewmaster in 2015. Under his guidance, the brewery has consistently refined its techniques, resulting in the exceptional quality that defines Bo: sake.
With an average age of 30, the brewery's team embodies youthful energy and innovation. Their dedication to their craft has earned Tonouchi high praise on saketime, Japan's largest sake review site. As Bo: continues to evolve, its popularity is bound to soar, captivating sake enthusiasts worldwide.
Experience the pinnacle of Japanese sake craftsmanship with Tonoike Brewery. Let their exquisite creations transport you to a realm of refined flavors and unparalleled excellence.
