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Tsunan Brewery's Celebratory Event for the Niigata Governor Award

On May 17, 2025, Tsunan Brewery Co., Ltd., located in the heart of Niigata Prefecture's Nakauonuma district, hosted a celebratory event for its recent accolade of the Niigata Governor Award (1st place) at THE NIIGATA in Ginza. This prestigious award was given during the 6th Annual Echigo Sake Brewing Technology Competition, a recognized event in the sake industry.

The event kicked off with Remi Enomoto, the brewery's evangelist, serving as the emcee, welcoming numerous guests, including industry stakeholders and dedicated fans from all over Japan. The atmosphere was warm and jovial as everyone gathered to commemorate this significant achievement together. Attendees were greeted with heartfelt opening remarks from Kenzo Suzuki, the company's president, who expressed his joy and gratitude for the support that had led the brewery to this moment. Following his speech, Takagi, the director of THE NIIGATA, welcomed the guests, filling the room with applause.

Furthermore, attendees were treated to congratulatory messages, including a heartfelt speech from Yu Kawai, the mayor of Tsunan. He praised the brewery’s refined taste and exceptional brewing techniques, reminding everyone of the hard work and passion invested by the toji and brewery workers, encouraging further success on the world stage.

In addition, Rin Uzuki, the representative of the sake community and media organization "Saka Komachi," shared his respect for Tsunan Brewery's continuous challenges and innovations in the sake industry.

The highlight of the evening was the tasting of the award-winning Junmai Daiginjo "Tsunan." Guided by Inari Watanabe, an instructor from the SSI Sake Academy, guests learned about the allure of this exquisite sake. Crafted in the snow-laden region of Tsunan, this sake is made from high-quality rice, “Gohyaku-mangoku,” which is polished down to 40%. It undergoes careful fermentation in a low-temperature environment to enhance its elegant aroma and crisp flavor, resulting in high acclaim.

The celebration reached a crescendo as DJ Kamoshitaro, who promotes local revitalization through fermentation, led a toast that united everyone present. Guests later enjoyed a time for photo opportunities and lively conversations, deepening connections as they savored "Tsunan" together.

The event was a testament to Tsunan Brewery's commitment to maintaining its traditional sake-making rooted in the rich nature of Tsunan while also striving for innovative challenges and creating value in the industry.

About Tsunan Brewery

Established in Tsunan Town within Niigata Prefecture, Tsunan Brewery is renowned for its exceptional sake crafted in one of Japan's leading snow-prone regions. Utilizing natural spring water sourced from mountains reaching over 2,000 meters in height, the brewery integrates local rice varieties such as “Gohyaku-mangoku” and “Uonuma Koshihikari” in its production process. This synthesis of coexistence with nature and innovation embodies its brand concept, “Brew for Future—brewing a future in harmony.” The company proudly earned the Niigata Governor Award (1st place) during the 2025 Echigo Sake Brewing Technology Competition, further establishing its reputation in the sake brewing industry. For more information, visit Tsunan Sake.