What grapes are used in KIRARITO Yukimuro Chozou Red?

It is a blend of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, both grown in the Kitasato University vineyard in Minamiuonuma, Niigata.

What food pairs well with this wine?

Grilled red meats, beef stew, and aged cheese pair well, as do soy-based Japanese dishes like sukiyaki or grilled eel.

Is this wine ready to drink now?

Yes, it is enjoyable on release, and its tannin structure allows for further aging if stored cool and dark.

Why is it called a limited edition?

It was produced in a run of only 500 bottles to commemorate Agricoa Echigo Winery's 50th anniversary.

CuvéeNiigataRed

KIRARITO Yukimuro Chozou Red

KIRARITO 雪室貯蔵赤

Agricoa Echigo Winery

About KIRARITO Yukimuro Chozou Red

Style: Red
Grape Varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Price Range: ¥13,200; tax included
Alcohol: 13%

KIRARITO Yukimuro Chozou Red is a 500-bottle limited-edition wine released to mark the 50th anniversary of Agricoa Echigo Winery. Made from 100% grapes grown in the Kitasato University vineyard in Minamiuonuma, it blends 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 12 months in French oak barrels inside the winery's yukimuro (snow cellar). The result is a dry, full-bodied red where Merlot's soft fruit and oak nuance meet Cabernet Sauvignon's firm tannin structure for a deep, lingering finish that reflects the snow-country terroir of Uonuma.

Sommelier's Note

A rare 500-bottle anniversary bottling that shows what snow-cellar aging can do for Japanese Merlot-Cabernet blends — silky texture with real structure.

New to wine?

A premium, limited-edition Japanese red for special occasions — smooth and approachable despite its full-bodied structure.

Food Pairings

Pairs well with grilled or roasted red meats, rich beef stews, and aged hard cheeses. The firm tannins also stand up to umami-rich, soy-based dishes.

When to drink it

Best suited to milestone celebrations, premium gift-giving, or an elegant dinner paired with rich Japanese cuisine.

Terroir & Winemaking

Blend of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Kitasato University vineyard (Minamiuonuma City, Niigata). Dry, full-bodied, ABV 13%. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels within the yukimuro (snow cellar), which holds a near-constant low temperature year-round for slow, even maturation. Bottled at 750ml; limited to 500 bottles for the winery's 50th anniversary.

About the producer

Agricoa Echigo WineryNiigata's snow-cellar pioneer of European wine grapes since 1975南魚沼市, 新潟県 · Founded 1975Visit the producer page →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What grapes are used in KIRARITO Yukimuro Chozou Red?: It is a blend of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, both grown in the Kitasato University vineyard in Minamiuonuma, Niigata.
What food pairs well with this wine?: Grilled red meats, beef stew, and aged cheese pair well, as do soy-based Japanese dishes like sukiyaki or grilled eel.
Is this wine ready to drink now?: Yes, it is enjoyable on release, and its tannin structure allows for further aging if stored cool and dark.
Why is it called a limited edition?: It was produced in a run of only 500 bottles to commemorate Agricoa Echigo Winery's 50th anniversary.

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