They say that there used to be over 40 micro-brewed sake breweries in Otaru. Tanaka Sake Brewery is one of those few sake breweries that remains and has been in business for over 100 years. They produce a variety of sake throughout the year, and their products are popular among not only the Japanese but overseas tourists, especially from Asian countries.
I found a lovely sake at the shop of this Brewery.
Sake is usually clear and almost colorless but this sake is translucent pink.
I asked a sales clerk how they could make it. She told that brewing process is the same as other sakes; actually, it tastes just like ordinary sake, but the color comes from “Beni Koji”, red koji mould, not by artificial coloring.
The brand name of this sake is “Koharu”, literally meaning “A little spring”. It is the right name for this season! Your cheeks may also be pink when you enjoy this sake while viewing beautiful cherry blossoms.
Part of Tanaka Sake Brewery Building
An Array of sake at the shop
