Wine Tasting: Wines of Japan

Hosted by local wine enthusiast Robert Senior & sommelier Connie Hunter

Best known for the domestic production of sake (rice wine) and whiskies such as Suntory, Japan has always been a major wine importer. The popularity of wine has grown rapidly in recent years. As a result the domestic wine industry has expanded rapidly.

London-based sommelier Connie Hunter and local wine enthusiast Robert Senior will take you through a tasting of sparkling, white and red wines complete with Japanese crackers and an additional sake!

The main wine growing regions are Yamanashi Prefecture, west of Tokyo, and Hokkaido island. The main grape varieties are Koshu, producing light dry fruity whites and Muscat Bailey A which produces good reds. Among other grape varieties Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are widely planted.

Wine production is challenging in Japan as the winters are often bitterly cold and the grapes need protection. Summers can be very wet, creating additional problems. Koshu, which styles like a sauvignon blanc, is notably resilient and popular with Japanese seafood.

Notable wines include Chardonnays from Château Mercian and Takahata Winery and both Suntory and Sapporo now have successful wine ranges.