NIIZAWA JOZO

Founded in 1873, with the professed aim of delivering “the ultimate meal-time sake”, the brewery continues to hold itself to a support role, in deference to cuisine. Having a refined palate – which has itself landed him accolades in several tasting competitions – current fifth-generation Chief Operator Iwao Niizawa used his energy as both the first Head Brewer of his own firm and status as the outright youngest in Miyagi Prefecture – at the time – to reverse the declining fortunes of the brewery. When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck in 2011, however, the brewery was completely destroyed, relying on his indomitable spirit and the dedication of both the brewery workers and an army of volunteers to carry out a miraculous relocation and rebuilding process in Kawasaki-cho, Shibata District, within the same year.