WINE LIST
Koshu – Toriibira Vineyard Private Reserve
VINTAGE 2019
Katsunuma is Japan’s top Koshu producing region situated at the eastern end of the Kofu Basin.
The Katsunuma area is an alluvial fan with widely distributed well-drained soil, and has been suitable for viticulture since ancient times. The characteristic intricate terrain and complex soils give rise to vines that show the distinguishing sense of place.
The Toriihira district of Katsunuma, which our current owner, Shigekazu Misawa, valued, is located on the southwest-facing slope at an altitude of 450 meters, and has been regarded as famous vineyard areas of Katsunuma since ancient times because grapes ripen well there. Koshu grown on the hillside is naturally limited in yield compared to grapes grown on flatland. The grapes from Toriibira are even more condensed with smaller bunches. These concentrated grapes were the reason why Toriibira has been in the limelight since our predecessor’s era.
The soil mixed with gravel is well-drained, resulting in wines with intense fruit and backbone, all due to the patience in waiting for the grapes to mature succeeded by hand harvest, and the careful work of putting on each and every bunch an umbrella for protection against rain.
The “Toriibira Vineyard Private Reserve” Koshu uses not only grapes from the Toriibira area but the carefully selected top lot, followed by fermentation in neutral French oak barrels and maturation in stainless steel tanks. The wine has soft, elegant acidity and complexity, with a long finish.
| Region | Toriibira district of Katsunuma town, Koshu City, Yamanashi prefecture |
|---|---|
| Grape Variety | Koshu |
| Vinification | Fermentation in neutral French oak barrels Maturation in stainless tank |
| Type | White wine |
| Style | Dry |
| Retail Price | Open |
2019 Vintage
The growing season was light in rain with plenty of sunshine, smoothly promoting growth. July was rainy and cloudy, and maturity slowed down, but thanks to the good weather at the end of August, the delay in the summer was made up for. There was little damage from the autumn typhoon, and we were able to wait for full maturity before harvesting.
Tasting Note
Clear and faultless. Brilliant pale yellow colour with a grey hue. The nose is rich, with aromas of fruits such as golden delicious apple, yellow peach and pear, spicy aromas from cloves and white pepper, and toastiness, giving an impression of complexity. On sipping, a mellow attack, dry, with rounded acidity, fruity flavours similar to the aromas expand on the palate with a long finish. This is a white wine that combines elegance and power.
