About Mukai Shuzo | Ine, Kyoto Prefecture

In the idyllic fishing town of Ine lies a small brewery that has made a big impact.

Kuniko Mukai was a country girl, coaxed by her parents to study at the Tokyo University of Agriculture. While studying fermentation and brewing techniques at Tokyo University, Kuniko-san met Professor Takeda who encouraged her to create a sake made from the red rice he knew grew locally in Ine.

In May 2000 Kuniko-san launched her first ever red rice sake called ‘Ine Mankai’ or ‘Ine in full bloom’ and today this has put Mukai Shuzo and Ine on the sake map.⁠

Kuniko-san assumed the role of head brewer at the young age of 22. Her sakes are a reflection of her outgoing and curious nature, a cheery, infectious soul who constantly pushes forward.