Crafting Joy: Why a 160-Year-Old Brewery Focuses on One Premium Sake

Crafting Joy: The Essence Behind 'Yasaka no Sake Kotobuki'

For over 160 years, Watanabe Brewery has been part of Japan's sake-making narrative, but in a bold turning point, they decided to focus on a single premium sake known as 'Yasaka no Sake Kotobuki.' With this heartfelt approach, they aim to create a sake that truly resonates with significant celebrations. Their philosophy is encapsulated in their commitment to produce a sake exclusively meant for special occasions, emphasizing the joy that it brings to those who partake in it.

Rising Popularity in High-End Venues

Since its launch just three months ago, 'Yasaka no Sake Kotobuki' has quickly gained traction in sophisticated establishments that cherish special events. Its reputation was solidified at the prestigious Takashimaya department store in Osaka, where it was featured in the 2024 Buyers Selection and witnessed the sale of 70 bottles mid-way through the display. Customers have remarked on its appeal as a significant gift, citing the inclusion of a serial number on the bottles for a personalized touch.

Notably, establishments like Michelin-starred restaurant 'Terada' highlighted how the sake enhances the dining experience without overpowering the dishes. Guests are elated to discover a drink that compliments their meals while remaining enjoyable throughout the dining experience. Meanwhile, 'Takara Sushi,' located on the 7th floor of Takashimaya Osaka, echoed this sentiment, noting that it pairs beautifully with sushi without overshadowing its flavor, even while remaining light and fruity.

A Legacy of Thoughtful Decision-Making

The seventh-generation toji, Hideyuki Watanabe, emphasizes that this decision wasn't made lightly. They ceased producing multiple varieties of sake to pour their efforts into perfecting just this one. This shift reflects their desire to craft a sake that brings true joy and happiness to celebratory moments, moving away from mass production to an artistry that focuses on crafting a singular, high-quality product.

Watanabe's philosophy also leads them to emphasize the labor of love behind the brewing process. The method involves time-consuming tasks such as hand-made koji production, temperature regulation, and fermentation monitoring, which machines cannot replicate. They use only the purest water from the Kiso River and 100% Yamadanishiki rice to create a refined yet fruity, crisp sake that serves as a source of pride for the brewery.

Connecting Hearts Through Serialized Bottles

Every bottle of 'Yasaka no Sake Kotobuki' bears a special serialized seal on its crown, marking its unique footprint in the consumer's life. This number connects to personal milestones such as anniversaries, birthdays, and other memorable celebrations, adding sentimental value to each bottle. Furthermore, customers buying the sake are entered into a lottery for an invitation to an exclusive event titled 'Spring Celebration,' held every April, which further strengthens the community bond.

Commitments of Exclusivity and Depth

Choosing to partner with Watanabe Brewery signifies more than just a business transaction; it promises a deep, lasting relationship. They reserve their unique offerings for a limited number of selected high-end restaurants and hotels, ensuring that their product maintains exceptional quality without flooding the market. This means that the brewery personally engages with each of its partners, reinforcing ties and sharing their philosophy and storytelling behind the sake.

A Vision for the Future

Watanabe Brewery intends to remain steadfast in their commitment to producing exceptional sake for extraordinary events. They seek new partnerships with fine dining venues, department stores, and hotels that place a high value on special celebrations, continuing their legacy of crafting joy in every pour.

For inquiries, potential partners are invited to contact Watanabe Brewery through various means – phone, email, or visits at their premises, where they can experience the heartfelt journey of sake-making firsthand. 'Yasaka no Sake Kotobuki' aims to be the choice for prestigious establishments, ensuring that every special gathering is marked with a touch of exceptional quality sake.