Nagai Honke

Founded in 1895, Nagai Honke is a small rural sake brewery located at the foot of sacred Mt. Kashozan in the mountainous region of northern Gunma Prefecture. Its carefully handcrafted sake is made with high-quality rice, which is essential to the flavor of sake, and pristine water from an area surrounded by the Tanigawa mountain range and Mt. Hotaka. The brewery also benefits from a cool natural environment and clean air filtered through the cloud layers over the Joshinetsu mountains. Nagai Honke believes that the essence of sake brewing lies in the time and effort devoted to creating great flavor, traditional techniques preserved over many years, and the experience of its master brewer. It continues to make sake according to these principles today.

Sake made with Yamada Nishiki, considered the finest sake rice, is said to have an excellent aroma and flavor, a smooth, delicate texture, and a rich body. The renowned “Tone Nishiki” is a prime example, offering a refined flavor well worth experiencing. Brewery tours are held on an irregular basis, giving visitors an opportunity to see the sake-making process and learn about the dedication of owner and master brewer Hiroyuki Nagai. Visitors can also compare different varieties of the renowned “Tone Nishiki,” including junmai and unpasteurized sake. Freshly brewed sake is said to have an even richer flavor. Consider timing your brewery tour to coincide with the completion of the winter brewing season.