Aoki Shuzo (Kakurei)
| Years Active | 1717 – present |
|---|---|
| Region | Tohoku/Niigata |
| Country | Japan |
| Japanese Name | 青木酒造 |
| Prefecture | Niigata |
| Status | Operating |
| Owner | Family (Aoki family, 12th generation) |
| Water Source | Snowmelt underground water from Makihata Mountains (ultra-soft water) |
| Rice Varieties | Gohyakumangoku; Koshitanrei; Yamadanishiki; Koshi-Ibuki |
| Toji School | Echigo |
| Production Size | Medium |
| Key Brands | Kakurei; Tsuru no Tomo; Yukiotoko |
| Famous Brands | Junmai Daiginjo; Junmai Ginjo; Junmai; Honjozo; Tokubetsu Honjozo |
| Website | kakurei.co.jp |
| Coordinates | 37.0269, 138.8528 |
About Aoki Shuzo (Kakurei)
Kakurei means Crane Feather. Yukiotoko (Snowman) brand is a beloved local favorite. Located in Shiozawa the heaviest snowfall area in Japan. The name references the 18th century book Hokuetsu Seppu about Echigo snow country written by Aoki family ancestor Suzuki Bokushi.