杉之森 Narai Passage 生酒 720ml

Brewery History:
Suginomori was founded in 1793 in Narai-juku, Shiojiri, Nagano, at about 940 m—one of Japan’s highest breweries. After closing in 2012 it reopened in 2021 as suginomori brewery. The brand name narai comes from the Nakasendo post town. Sake is brewed with ultra-soft mountain water (hardness under 25) from the Kiso range above 1,000 m, and rice from Azumino, in a clear, modern style.

Sake Introduction:
Narai Passage launched in 2025 as the gateway to the narai range. “Passage” evokes the Nakasendo road and leads toward the flagship Kinmon and Sankei. Made with Azumino rice and Narai spring water, it is a 13% nama designed to drink easily. Some retailers list Kinmonnishiki koji and Miyamanishiki kake rice; the polish ratio is undisclosed. Unpasteurized and refrigerated, it is the most approachable introduction to Suginomori.

Tasting Notes:
Nosing: Sweet, gentle strawberry-milk aroma with steamed chestnut, white peach and pear.
Palate: Silky and light; rice umami meets transparent fruit, with a faint spritz.
Finish: Smooth and clean, tightened by a lemony acidity that never cloys.