Tasting event held for 'Nobishiro,' a rice koji amazake made with 'Ginzan Rice' from Niki Town, Hokkaido.

Redhorse Corporation, a company specializing in regional revitalization, has partnered with Niki Town, Hokkaido, to develop 'Nobishiro,' a rice koji amazake made from Niki's 'Ginzan Rice (Nanatsuboshi).' A completion unveiling and tasting event was held at the Niki Town Hall on May 19th. This product was developed to showcase the new appeal of Niki Town, known as the 'Town of Fruits.' The event was attended by the mayor and other stakeholders, where they tasted the product and discussed its potential as a new regional brand and hometown tax return gift. While Niki Town's cherries are highly popular as hometown tax gifts, the town faced the challenge of establishing a secondary signature product. Redhorse Corporation focused on 'rice,' which is the second most popular item in donation records. 'Nobishiro' was born as a way to deliver Niki's rice, nurtured alongside its fruits, in a new form. The rice used is 'Ginzan Rice' grown in the Ginzan district, cultivated under strict natural conditions including short sunshine hours, benefiting from the Yoichi River and fertile basin soil. The name 'Nobishiro' embodies three meanings: the town's potential, the body's potential, and the potential to enrich daily habits. The label design features a sophisticated look that fits well alongside wine, incorporating motifs of the town's emblem and fruits. As a sugar-free, non-alcoholic rice koji amazake, it is also aimed at the wellness market. During the tasting, the mayor expressed gratitude for the private sector's initiative in utilizing local resources. Future plans include offering the product as a hometown tax return gift and selling it at local events.