With the recent rise in popularity of Japanese whisky, sake, and Japanese beers, have you ever wondered whether Japanese wine is a thing? Something that is typically unknown is that the climate of Japan, with its long north-south axis and four colourful seasons, gives birth to wines that are truly unique and reflect the characteristics of each region.
There are currently more than 300 wineries across Japan, each with its own distinct character. If you’re a wine lover, here are 10 of the most incredible wineries in Japan that you should check out!
Top 10 Wineries in Japan
Chitose Winery (Hokkaido)
Wines nurtured in the northern climate of Hokkaido are Kita Wines and fruit wines. This winery is built as a stone warehouse, including an improved Sapporo soft stone granary. Primarily, Chitose Winery grows Pinot Noir for red wines and Kerner for white wines.
The winery is currently run by Mr. Keiji Misawa, the son of the Misawa family. This family has a long history of brewers who, through each generation, have passed down the skill and knowledge of making perfect Japanese wine. If you visit here, you can take a free tour (pre-booked) where you can see the equipment used to make the wine and the brewing process.
Wine Chateau Osako (Iwate)
Akibo Winery is located in the Akiho Onsen Township. This stylish winery offers incredible views of the surrounding vineyards. They focus on 12 cultivars, including black and white grapes native to France from the regions of Bordeaux and Alsace.
Additionally, they have an on-site laboratory with a maturation cabinet. They allow for tours and tastings in these areas. If you visit the café at this winery, they offer certain snacks that pair perfectly with their wines.
Asahi Town Wine Castle (Yamagata)
Asahi Town Wine is a spectacular winery, reminiscent of a European castle. This is why it is also known as Asahi Town Wine Castle.
Red, white, and rosé wines made from locally grown grapes, sparkling wine made from 100% Yamagata grapes, Asahimachi brandy, fruit wines such as cherry and peach, and grape juice with no additives are all produced here. When you visit, you can watch the wines being created and then visit the on-site shop to sample many of the wines for free.
Tokyo Winery
Since opening in 2014, Tokyo Winery is renowned as Tokyo’s first winery! Founded by Miwa Echigoya, the ambition was to allow people living in Tokyo to experience the simple concept of enjoying both wine and vegetables produced in Tokyo together.
Tokyo Winery is open for lunch on Saturdays and Sundays, making it the perfect attraction for a little sightseeing on the weekends.
Curve Dotch Winery
Based at the foot of Mt. Kakuda, Curve Dotch Winery is an elegant and unique place to visit, resembling a European wine village. The winery includes a wine cellar, restaurant, shop, and garden where you can explore and casually enjoy delicious wine and food.
I highly recommend visiting this winery if you are interested in wine tours and understanding the fundamentals of making good wine. This winery tour takes you through the vineyards, vinification room, and barrel-ageing cellars, complete with an explanation of the wine-making process. There is also a restaurant, café, and even a hot spring on site!
Heidee Winery (Ishikawa)
If we refer back to the two types of wine in Japan explained earlier, here is where you will appreciate this offering. Heidee Winery prides itself on using homemade Japanese grapes from the local areas. These grapes grow overlooking the Sea of Japan, with the specialty varieties being the Aojo series and the Senri series.
These are the perfect wines to match amazing Japanese seafood! The winery tour itself allows you to visit the vineyards and then enjoy a tasting from a window with a spectacular view.
Nakaizu Winery Chateau (Shizuoka Prefecture)
This winery is operated by the Sidax Group and has a huge 10 acres of vineyard fields. The winery prides itself on creating its own wines, wine grape vinegar, and wine grape juice. All of these pair perfectly with its own cheese and hams.
The winery also features a restaurant, allowing you to enjoy the elegant experience of tasting incredible wines while enjoying great food. Furthermore, touring the winery and visiting the wine cellar is completely free!
Katasimo Winery (Osaka)
Katashimo Winery is located in Kashiwabara City, Osaka. This winery is based in the largest grape-growing area in Osaka and has a history of brewing since 1913.
The wines, named after the company’s vineyards, are made from grapes grown on the company’s own farm using reduced pesticides and organic fertilisers where possible. Winery tours are also held. During the tours, wine tastings are available, so you can find the perfect wine for you.
Sera Winery (Hiroshima)
Sera Winery sources its grapes from the Sera region of Hiroshima. The differing grapes offer wines that can be very dry to extremely sweet. Sera Winery is located next to the Sera Yume Park, which hosts incredible scenery and a nice change of pace for people looking to take a day out.
There are two brewing tours that allow visitors to experience the climate of the Sera Plateau and the thoughts of the brewers. This includes a tour of the brewery and a tasting of the wines in storage. You can also have a label made with your photo or message, making your original Sera wine a great way to create memories!
Discover the Unique Flavours of Japanese Wineries
Exploring the wineries in Japan offers a unique and enriching experience, showcasing the diverse flavours and traditions that make Japanese wine special. From the northern climate of Hokkaido’s Chitose Winery to the European charm of Asahi Town Wine Castle in Yamagata, each winery presents a distinct character and history, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of their regions. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveller, visiting these wineries will provide you with a deeper appreciation for Japanese winemaking and its unique terroir.
Not only do these wineries offer exquisite wines, but they also provide immersive tours, tastings, and educational experiences that enhance your visit. The meticulous care in growing local grape varieties, coupled with innovative brewing techniques, makes each winery visit memorable. As you savour the various wines, from the sweet to the dry, you’ll find that the passion and dedication of Japanese winemakers are evident in every sip.
So, plan your visit to these remarkable wineries and embark on a delightful journey through Japan’s vibrant winemaking landscape. Also consider dropping by the country’s best sake breweries and craft beer breweries.
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