Fox Village Koshu Barrel

About this wine

Fox Village Koshu Barrel is a barrel-aged white wine from Alps Wine Co., Ltd. in Fuefuki, Yamanashi, made from 100% Koshu grapes grown by contracted growers within the GI Yamanashi appellation. After primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine spends roughly six months aging in used oak barrels, which round out Koshu's naturally crisp profile without masking it in new-oak flavor. The result is a shining golden-hued white with a smooth attack, aromas of honey and roasted nuts, and a full-bodied, umami-rich palate with a lingering, savory finish — a more structured, contemplative sibling to the winery's Fox Village Nouveau and Sparkling Koshu.

Sommelier's Note

"This is the Fox Village line's most serious expression of Koshu — proof that gentle old-oak aging can give Japan's signature grape real weight and savory depth without sacrificing its identity."

Food Pairings

Its oak-derived richness makes it a natural match for butter-forward dishes: saikyo-yaki (miso-marinated grilled fish), smoked chicken, and quiche. It also stands up well to creamy pasta and roasted white meats.

When to drink it

Well suited to relaxed dinner parties, butter-rich Japanese-Western fusion meals, and gifting — including as a furusato nozei (hometown tax) reward from Fuefuki City.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Koshu

Style

White

Alcohol

12%

Vintage

2023

Price Range

¥2,500-3,000

Terroir & Winemaking

100% Koshu sourced from contracted vineyards in Yamanashi under the GI Yamanashi designation. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged approximately 6 months in used (neutral) oak barrels to add texture and aromatic complexity without heavy oak flavor. ABV 12%. Best served at 7-13°C.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Fox Village Koshu Barrel different from regular Koshu wine?

Unlike most Koshu, which is fermented and bottled without wood contact, this cuvée is aged for about six months in used oak barrels after tank fermentation, adding honeyed, nutty aromatics and a fuller, umami-rich texture.

What does it taste like?

It pours a bright golden color and offers a smooth attack with honey and roasted-nut aromas, leading to a full-bodied, savory palate with a long, umami-laden finish.

What food pairs best with this wine?

Butter-forward dishes work best: saikyo-yaki grilled fish, smoked chicken, and quiche, as well as creamy pasta.

Is this wine certified under GI Yamanashi?

Yes. It is made entirely from Koshu grapes grown in Yamanashi Prefecture and meets the raw-material and production standards required for the GI Yamanashi geographical indication.

What is the best serving temperature?

It is best enjoyed slightly chilled, around 7-13°C, to balance its oak-derived richness with Koshu's natural acidity.