Founded in 1873, this Miyagi prefecture sake brewery sits at the foot of the Zao mountain range, which is their namesake. Each year from November to March, the brewery crafts sake using locally grown, specially contracted rice and pure mountain spring water. The cold winter winds of the region provide the optimal climate for fermentation, resulting in sake of exceptional clarity and character. In addition to traditional sake, they produce innovative types such as sparkling sake and low-alcohol, rosé-style sake brewed using special yeast. As of 2026, the brewery has earned gold 33 times at the Annual Japan Sake Awards.