阿部勘酒造 Abekan Shuzo

During the feudal domain era (Edo era), Shiogama flourished as a temple town serving Shiogama Shrine—deeply revered by the Date clan, lords of the Sendai domain—and as the maritime gateway to Sendai. Benefiting from privileges such as tax exemptions, it developed into a lively hub where inns and entertainment quarters lined the approaches to the shrine, welcoming numerous travelers.

Abekan Shuzo, which had long operated a shop with its gate at the foot of Shiogama Shrine, began brewing sake in 1716 (Kyōhō 1) after being granted a brewing license by order of the Date domain. It was appointed as the official brewer of sacred sake (omiki) for the shrine.

For over 300 years, the brewery has carried out the important role of producing omiki for Shiogama Shrine and Shiwahiko Shrine. The current Kuramoto (head of the brewery) is the 15th-generation, Mr. Abe Masahiro.

Although the scale of production is not large, the brewery prioritizes small-batch, high-quality brewing over mass production, and all sake produced is sold under its own label.

Using primarily rice from Miyagi Prefecture, Abekan’s style emphasizes both the natural umami of the rice and a clean, crisp finish, resulting in sake that pairs effortlessly with food and encourages another sip. It complements the food culture of the port town of Shiogama—especially its fresh seafood—and suits a wide range of occasions, from everyday meals to celebratory gatherings, accompanying people’s lives in many settings.

Abekan is particularly renowned as a sake that pairs exceptionally well with sushi. The Sanriku coast is famous for seafood, especially Shiogama Fishing Port has the highest tuna catch volume in Japan. Moreover, Shiogama has the highest number of sushi restaurants per capita in the country.

Sushi in Shiogama embodies a distinct philosophy from that of Edomae. While Edomae emphasizes seasoning and knife techniques applied to the toppings, Shiogama places value on the intrinsic flavour of impeccably fresh ingredients. Such freshness carries a quiet yet powerful umami on its own.

Over many years, Abekan Shuzo has shaped Shiogama’s food culture alongside its fish and sushi. In 2026, the brewery has renewed the series, completely revising its flavour design and refining its precision.