About this wine
Ajimu Merlot is a dry red wine from Ajimu Winery (Sanwa Shurui) in Usa, Oita Prefecture, made from 100% Ajimu-grown Merlot. Fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged roughly one year in oak barrels followed by further bottle aging, it shows a glossy, pale garnet color with layered aromas of raspberry and blackcurrant, rose and herbal florals, and gentle spice. At about 12.2% ABV, the palate is light-to-medium bodied with soft, well-integrated tannins and clean acidity, making it an approachable everyday red rather than the winery's flagship bottling.
A gentle, food-friendly introduction to Japanese red wine — soft tannins and moderate body make it easy to enjoy without prior wine experience.
Sommelier's Note
"An honest, approachable expression of Japanese Merlot — softer and lighter than its Imoriya and Reserve siblings, but a reliable everyday choice that shows Ajimu's fruit-forward house style."
Food Pairings
A versatile everyday red — pairs well with grilled or fried chicken (karaage), teriyaki dishes, roasted mushrooms, and mild hard cheeses. Its soft tannins also suit soy-glazed grilled meats.
When to drink it
Everyday dinners, casual gatherings, and pairing with home-style Japanese cooking.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot
- Style
- Red
- Price Range
- ¥3,000-3,500
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Merlot grown in the Ajimu basin. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged approximately one year in oak barrels with additional bottle aging before release. ABV approximately 12.2%.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Ajimu Merlot taste like?
- It shows raspberry and blackcurrant fruit with floral (rose) and herbal notes plus gentle spice, on a light-to-medium body with soft tannins and clean acidity.
- What food pairs well with Ajimu Merlot?
- It pairs well with karaage (fried chicken), teriyaki dishes, roasted mushrooms, and soy-glazed grilled meats, as well as mild hard cheeses.
- What is the alcohol content of Ajimu Merlot?
- Approximately 12.2% ABV.
- How is Ajimu Merlot different from the Imoriya or Reserve versions?
- The standard Ajimu Merlot is lighter-bodied and more affordable than the Imoriya single-vineyard bottling and the longer oak-aged Reserve, which show deeper color, riper fruit, and more pronounced barrel spice.
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