Collection: Tamagawa

Tamagawa stands for the sake of the Kinoshita Brewery in Koyama 1512, Kumihama-cho, Kyotango-shi, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Under this name, we encounter a brewery from Kyotango whose sake showcases different facets of Japanese brewing craft: robust and unfiltered, clearly defined as Junmai, or consciously modeled after older production methods.

Kyotango belongs to Kyoto Prefecture, yet Tamagawa cannot be reduced to a single flavor profile. It is precisely the range of available sake that makes the character of the brand interesting. Rice, fermentation, aging, and the decision to filter a sake or bottle it in its natural state each create a distinct expression. In doing so, Tamagawa combines traditional concepts and processes with sake that are clearly distinct from one another.

The Red Label Muroka Nama Genshu Yamahai Junmai demonstrates just how different these expressions can be. A unique cellar yeast cultivated at Tamagawa is used for this sake. It is rich in amino acids, resulting in a robust flavor. Immediately after pressing, it is bottled unfiltered and without additives; the usual tank storage does not take place. This results in an independent, immediate style.

The Tamagawa Tokubetsu Junmai represents another side of the brewery. It is brewed without the addition of alcohol or other ingredients and has a polishing ratio of 60 percent. Nutty notes combine with aromas of toast and wild berries. The designation "Tokubetsu" refers to a special production method or a high-quality rice variety.

With the Tamagawa Time Machine, the perspective reaches back even further. This sake is brewed according to a method from 1712. It is wonderfully sweet and exhibits notes of molasses and dried fruits. Plenty of umami, natural organic acids, and sugar are reminiscent of the style of sake from around 300 years ago.

In this way, Tamagawa tells not only of a place in Kyotango, but also of the diversity that can emerge within a single brewery. These three sake exemplify different paths: immediate richness, structured Junmai character, and a historical sweetness.