Shirataki Brewery was founded in 1855 (Ansei 2) by Tousuke Minatoya, who dreamed of making sake using the pure water of Yuzawa. In its early days, the sake was served on-site to travelers and horsemen passing along the Mikuni Highway. For over 140 years, the brewery has continued its passion for sake brewing, using underground spring water drawn from a well on the premises. In 1990, they launched their flagship brand, "Jozen Mizuno Gotoshi"—meaning "The Best is Like Water"—named after a teaching by Laozi and inspired by the light, smooth character of the local water. It quickly gained popularity, especially among younger drinkers and women. In 2015, the brewery introduced "Jozen Mizuno Gotoshi Sparkling," a sweet and tangy sparkling junmai sake with a refreshing fizz. Today, about 10% of their production is exported overseas. Staying true to the founder’s vision, Shirataki Brewery continues to pursue new challenges with a global perspective.