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Known as the "Roof of Japan," Nagano Prefecture in central Honshu is one of the most ruggedly attractive in the country. Surrounded by majestic 3,000-meter-high mountains, this prefecture is one of scenic splendor set in a harmoniously preserved natural environment.
It is in the fast rivers flowing off Nagano's mountains that one of the prefecture's delicacies is found. The trout-like fish known as amago are caught here and when simply grilled make a fine addition to any table. One of the few crops that grow in upland regions is buckwheat, and this is best enjoyed as soba noodles, which in the Suwa Basin are often served as chasoba, using powdered green tea as a flavoring. The cold months in this region demand good, hearty fare, and for that the stew known as kakuni, made with pork, eggplant and pumpkin, provides welcome winter warmth.
As in all regions of Japan, the beverage of choice to accompany the local food is the local sake. And in Nagano, the name to look for is Masumi. Since 1662, this brewery, located near Nagano's largest lake, Suwa, has been producing excellent sake, and its influence has extended far beyond Nagano. A superior variety of yeast at Masumi has become the industry standard, being used in over 60 percent of breweries to make top-grade sake.
Within the range of quality sake produced at Masumi, two particular recommendations can be made. Combining a lively fragrance with a rich, full flavor, Yumedono is a daiginjo type of sake and has earned top honors in scores of competitions. Also noteworthy is Masumi's signature brand, Karakuchi Ki-ippon, a dry junmai ginjo type of sake, whose distinct, complex flavor is followed by a crisp and satisfying finish and is the consummate embodiment of the sake maker's art. |
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1-16 Motomachi, Suwa, Nagano
392-8686, JAPAN
Tel : 0266-52-6161
Fax : 0266-53-4477 |
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| • Cella Masumi Hong Kong Shop |
1/F., 24-30 Percival Street,
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Tel : +852-2882-2969
Fax : +852-2882-3559 |
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E-mail : kikaku@masumi.co.jp
URL : http://www.masumi.co.jp |
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