Cabernet Sauvignon
The most widely cultivated red wine grape in the world. It has powerful tannins, deep color, and potential for long aging. Known for its cassis and blackberry aromas, it gains complexity through barrel aging.
A highland wine region surrounded by the Japanese Alps. The cool climate at 500-900m elevation, long sunshine hours, and low rainfall provide ideal conditions for grape growing. Producing world-class wines from Merlot and Chardonnay, it's sometimes called 'Japan's Burgundy.'
Climate / Soil
- Climate
- Inland climate (cool)
- Soil
- Volcanic ash soil, 砂壌土, Gravelly
Appellations
- Kikyogahara
- Chikumagawa Wine Valley
- 上田
- 塩尻
- Azumino
History
Grape cultivation began in the 1890s, with rapid growth as a serious wine region since the 2000s. In 2021, the 'Shinshu Wine Valley Vision' launched, developing distinctive winemaking in four areas: Kikyogahara, Chikuma River, Tenryu River, and Japanese Alps.
Sommelier Note
Nagano Merlot is concentrated yet elegant. Chardonnay features attractive tight acidity reflecting the cool climate. Pinot Noir from the Chikuma River area is also noteworthy. Try pairing with Wagyu beef, Shinshu salmon, or wild mountain vegetable dishes.
Key Varieties
Merlot
The flagship variety of Bordeaux's Right Bank. Known for soft, smooth tannins and fruit flavors reminiscent of plum and cherry. More approachable than Cabernet and recommended for beginners.
Pinot Noir
A noble variety native to Burgundy. It produces delicate, complex, and elegant wines, but is also known for being very difficult to cultivate. Its charm lies in its transparent color and aromas of red fruits and spices.
Chardonnay
The world's most popular white wine grape. Native to Burgundy, it shows diverse expressions from the crisp acidity of Chablis to the rich style of California, depending on region and winemaking.