Sake brewing year (Shuzo Nendo, BY)

The sake brewing year (shuzo nendo) is the brewing period used for Japanese sake. One brewing year runs for one year, from July 1 to June 30 of the following year. The period is counted from the start of new sake production, and within the industry it is commonly abbreviated as "BY" (Brewery Year). For example, sake brewed from July 1, 2017 (Heisei 29) to June 30, 2018 is labeled "29BY". The brewing year is thus one of the key reference points in sake production and distribution. Note that the year is expressed using the Japanese era name, which differs by country and culture, so this convention can be hard to understand outside Japan.