Tamagawa was featured in an article
Tamagawa is a sake brewed by a long-established brewery in Tango, northern Kyoto Prefecture, utilizing the rich natural environment of the area. Tamagawa is a deep sake that displays a variety of flavors depending on temperature and time, and is considered a “mysterious sake.” Here we introduce the appeal of Tamagawa.
“Tamagawa” is a sake named after a beautiful, jewel-like clear stream.
The History of Kinoshita Brewery, Makers of Tamagawa
Kinoshita Brewery, which produces Tamagawa, is a long-established brewery founded in 1842 and has a history of about 175 years. Located in Kumihama, Kyotango City, in northern Kyoto Prefecture, they have always crafted their sake to reflect the unique climate and nature of the region. The current owner, Yoshihito Kinoshita, the 11th generation, respects the traditions of the brewery while teaming up with Philip Harper, an British toji (master brewer), to create innovative sake. Together, they have introduced groundbreaking sakes such as “Time Machine,” which revives Edo-period brewing methods, and “Ice Breaker,” a sake made to be enjoyed on the rocks.
The Origin of the Name “Tamagawa”
The flagship sake “Tamagawa” takes its name from the Kawakamitani River, a stream that runs next to the brewery and is said to be as beautiful as a precious gem. Although Tamagawa has a long history like its makers, the cute Tamagawa logo on its labels and shop curtains is a recent addition. The logo was designed by the current owner’s brother-in-law, the Japanese painter Katsusuke Sakane, and is known as the “marutama mark.” It’s loved by locals and sake fans alike.
Tamagawa Is a Sake That Changes Flavor Over Time
Tamagawa is a sake that allows you to enjoy change.
One reason Tamagawa is called a “mysterious sake” is that its flavor changes as time passes. Tamagawa’s lineup is diverse, from unfiltered, unpasteurized sake bottled straight from the mash, to well-aged sakes shipped after years of maturation. By paying attention to the year of aging displayed on each bottle, you can enjoy Tamagawa’s unique appeal on a deeper level.
Tamagawa Can Continue to Mature at Home After Purchase
Tamagawa is a “tough” sake that overturns the usual idea that sake must be handled delicately and consumed quickly. It doesn’t spoil easily, so you don’t have to hurry to finish it. You can even leave it to rest at home and enjoy the evolving flavors as it matures. Among Tamagawa fans, some even say “the last glass tastes better than the first.” Some people leave their bottles at home for several years. It’s no wonder Tamagawa is called a “mysterious sake.”
Enjoying Tamagawa’s Changes in Flavor at Different Temperatures
Tamagawa offers surprising changes in taste depending on temperature.
Another way to enjoy Tamagawa is by noticing how its flavor changes at different temperatures. Whether served chilled, at room temperature, or warmed, its taste can transform in surprising ways. As chilled sake returns to room temperature or warmed sake cools down, Tamagawa’s flavor keeps changing, so you can enjoy a different taste every time you sip.
Experience Tamagawa’s “Toughness” with Hot Sake
It’s often said that if you heat sake too much, the flavor can become harsh. For most sakes, “tobikiri-kan” (extra-hot sake) is around 55°C, which is the highest standard temperature. But for Tamagawa, that’s just normal. Tamagawa’s toughness stands out here too—raising the temperature makes its flavor smoother. The staff at Kinoshita Brewery rarely drink it lukewarm. Tamagawa’s rich and full-bodied flavor is enjoyable on its own, but it’s also perfect as a pairing sake for food. Whether it’s Japanese, Western, or Chinese cuisine, Tamagawa can be matched with all kinds of dishes. Explore its flavors through different aging periods, temperatures, and food pairings—enjoy Tamagawa your way.
Brewed by: Kinoshita Brewery Co., Ltd.
