About this wine
Craft Valley Blend Rouge is part of Akiu Winery's Craft Valley series, which unites estate-grown fruit from the winery's Akiu vineyard with Merlot and Yama Sauvignon grapes sourced from contracted growers in Yamagata Prefecture. A portion of the grapes are semi-dried using a passito-inspired technique — rare among Japanese wineries — concentrating sugars and deepening the wine's fruit character before fermentation. The result is a vivid ruby-colored, medium-bodied red with aromas of blackcurrant and dark berries layered with black pepper, dried herbs, and spice. On the palate it shows refreshing acidity and soft, approachable tannins, finishing in an elegant, well-balanced style at around 9.5% ABV. Best enjoyed at 14-16°C, it captures Akiu Winery's philosophy of blending its own valley terroir with the character of neighboring Tohoku vineyards.
An easy-drinking, food-friendly red that showcases how Japanese wineries blend home-grown and neighboring-region grapes — a great entry point into Tohoku red wine.
Sommelier's Note
"A compelling proof of concept for Akiu Winery's blending philosophy — home-vineyard character rounded out by Yamagata fruit, with a rare passito touch giving it depth beyond its price point."
Food Pairings
A versatile partner for grilled and roasted meats, Western-style dishes, cheese, Chinese cuisine, and even grilled eel (unagi), thanks to its soft tannins and balanced acidity.
When to drink it
Casual dinners, gatherings with friends, and pairing with everyday meals spanning Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot, Yama Sauvignon
- Style
- Red
- Price Range
- ¥4,400 (2023 vintage)
Terroir & Winemaking
Blend of estate-grown grapes from Akiu (Sendai, Miyagi) and Merlot / Yama Sauvignon from contracted vineyards in Yamagata Prefecture. A portion of the harvest is semi-dried (passito-style) in a well-ventilated room to concentrate sugar and flavor before blending. 750ml bottle, approximately 9.5% ABV. Released in limited quantities; the 2023 vintage was priced at ¥4,400.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What grapes are used in Craft Valley Blend Rouge?
- It blends Merlot and Yama Sauvignon, sourced partly from Akiu Winery's own vineyard and partly from contracted growers in Yamagata Prefecture.
- What does it taste like?
- A vivid ruby-colored, medium-bodied red with blackcurrant and berry aromas, black pepper and herbal spice notes, refreshing acidity, and soft tannins.
- What food pairs well with it?
- Grilled meats, Western dishes, cheese, Chinese cuisine, and even grilled eel (unagi).
- What makes this wine distinctive?
- A portion of the grapes are semi-dried using a passito-inspired technique, a method rarely used by Japanese wineries, which concentrates the fruit's sugar and flavor.
- What is the best serving temperature?
- 14-16°C, slightly cooler than a typical full-bodied red.
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