The pink label sets the vibe, bright, playful, and alluring. Produced with local yeast and rice as well as white koji, which adds a little more citric acid. But don’t think this is an acidic brew, it’s aroma delivers the classic white flower scent and the flavor is reminiscent of bubble gum or cotton candy. After the first bubble of flavor, it gently dissipates into a light dryness.
Mutsu Hassen is brewed in Aomori Prefecture in the Tohoku region.
Hachinohe Brewing Company
Aomori Prefecture
The founder left an area called Omi in 1740 on a journey for Mutsu in order to begin brewing sake. Apparently the journey was an adventure because he didn’t establish Hachinohe Brewing Company until 1775. Now in their eighth generation ownership, this brewery prioritizes using Aomori rice and yeast in combination with local waters. In addition, they don’t add lactic acid to any of their starters, choosing to use high-temperature saccharification and white koji, instead of the standard yellow. In the quest for efficiency and perfection, the brewers harmonize the use of machine and handmade techniques.