Ibuki
Inheriting the Nanbu Toji Tradition, Young Brewers Take on a New Challenge.
In Furudono Town, a place known as the home of yabusame (horseback archery), there lies a brewery with a unique identity. Because another brewery shares its name in Aizubange Town, this one is famously known as 'Azumatoyokuni' (East Toyokuni). It is a brewery defined by a powerful mission: to continue its challenge of protecting deep tradition while boldly pioneering new possibilities for Japanese sake.
Their story begins in 1840. For generations, they have dedicated themselves to the classic brewing methods of the Nanbu toji, a devotion embodied in their 'Azumatoyokuni Daiginjo.' This sake is held in the highest regard, and its skill is undeniable: it has earned consecutive Gold Prizes at The Annual Japan Sake Awards and took the top award for two consecutive terms at the Nanbu Toji's own sake appraisal.
Their brewing philosophy is a poetic one: "Born in the nature of Furudono, nurtured by the people who gather there, and loved by all." As the true 'jizake of Furudono,' their offerings like 'Junmaishu Cho' and 'Honjozo Zen' are masterpieces that are the pride of local connoisseurs.
In 2011, the ninth-generation representative, Kensei Yanai, began a new journey. He gathered his young brewers and launched a new brand: 'Ibuki.' The name, he explains, was born from a powerful belief: "I infused it with the conviction that one's own steps (己の歩) are what matter." This is his mission, as Representative Yanai looks to the future: "We will move forward by making a clear distinction between 'what must be protected' and 'what must be changed.'"
Toyokuni Brewry & Co.,Ltd