The Marumoto Brewery was founded in 1867 at the base of the Chikurin-ji Mountains, in Okayama-ken, one of Japan’s most prized agricultural regions. The Brewery was originally called Shimizu-ya, literally meaning “spring water store” because it was built in the site of a great water source.

Now a national cultural landmark, the brewery is managed by the sixth generation son, Niichiro Marumoto. After making the Kamomidori brand for many years, the brewery introduced Chikurin in 1990 as their new, limited release brand. Because of how carefully they make this saké, in Japan, the brewery sells it directly to a small network of qualified retailers they choose themselves.

Nousan Sakagura
The Marumoto Brewery is known as nousan sakagura, the “Farmers’ Brewery,” because the people who grow the rice also make the saké. Their passion, care and knowledge go into every step of every bottle. Reflecting the people and place behind this saké, Chikurin also has a distinctive “farm style”—natural, relaxed and fresh.

Jika Saibai
Large scale breweries buy their rice from large farmers or rice brokers. Small, regional brewers work closely with local farmers, who raise rice for them under contract. But the Marumoto Brewery makes Chikurin from 100% home grown rice, grown on their own land. The rice they grow is 100% yamada nishiki, the most celebrated saké rice. The owner, Marumoto-san, has also applied for organic certification and expects approval in the next few years.

Okayama Region
Situated in the Chugoku Area, which includes Hiroshima to the West and Tottori to the North, Okayama is known as the “Land of Sunshine,” because of it sunny and dry weather. Okayama is a rich agricultural region, yielding Japan’s most famous peaches, and great strawberries and grapes. The Seto Inland Sea, which lies between the coast of Okayama and the island of Shikoku yields wonderful oysters, snapper and water eel. Other kinds of fish that grow in this Sea are small and flavorful. Thus, the cooking style of Okayama is simple, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

Meaning “Depth” Chikurin’s Fukamari Junmai is made to complement flavorful foods like these fish. Meaning “Lightness,” Karoyaka Junmai Ginjo is brewed for oysters and other light foods, including salads and sushi and sashimi.