Japanese wine, which is produced domestically using 100% grapes grown in Japan, has undergone remarkable evolution and is attracting attention from around the world. As ``Japanese wine'' begins to awaken and undergo a paradigm shift, three wine authorities will carefully select and introduce 3 bottles that you should experience now.

Japanese wine selected by sommelier Rie Matsuki x Kasa Norabouna Tokyo Rouge 2018

I have a job as a wine consultant. Based on his extensive knowledge and experience in winemaking and cultivation, he has many wineries as clients and provides guidance on winemaking. Although it is still unfamiliar in Japan, it is a recognized profession overseas.

Minoru Numata has a background in which he worked as a hotel sommelier and at a wine import company, and then studied winemaking in New Zealand. He constantly receives offers to serve as a consultant due to his thorough knowledge of various aspects of the wine industry. In 2018, Numata consulted in Tokyo, a city that many would consider unsuitable for winemaking.

The winery is located in Akiruno City in the western Tama area. It all began in 2015, when 500 Yama Sauvignon varieties, which are resistant to fungal diseases and have the characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon, were planted. Akiruno City is an alluvial fan created by Lake Itsukaichi overflowing, and is said to have good drainage due to the accumulation of gravel. Surprisingly, the area is sandwiched between two rivers in the north and south, with wind blowing from west to east, creating an environment in which grapes, which are sensitive to excessive water and humidity, can grow surprisingly well.

The wine has a good balance of rich fruit flavors like cassis and spice flavors like cloves. This is an exquisite brew with just the right amount of bitterness typical of Numata, who specializes in making elegant Pinot Noir wines. Although it is a youthful wine, it has a full-bodied finish, and it goes perfectly with miso dishes such as double-pot meat with lots of vegetables and miso cutlets.

(Titles omitted)

Kasa Norabona Tokyo Rouge 2018
Maker: Vineyard Tama Co., Ltd. / Wine consultant Minoru Numata (until the end of March 2019)
Variety: Yama Sauvignon (Yama Grape x Cabernet Sauvignon. Cross-bred at Yamanashi University in 1990)
Features: Owns approximately 0.3 ha of own farm and brewery in Akiruno City, Tokyo. They invited Numata as a brewing consultant and began producing wine in 2018. He is also active in projects to save agriculture, such as creating a slightly sparkling cider called ``Izuroi no Apple Wine'' using uncommercialized apples.
Price: 4,644 yen (tax included/according to editorial department)
http://vineyardtama.com/