About this wine
Kurahara Le Bois is a highly sought-after red wine by Eishi Okamoto of Beau Paysage, sourced from the Kurahara vineyard in Yamanashi Prefecture. Made from 100% Cabernet Franc with minimal intervention, it expresses the forest-like terroir of this second vineyard site. Delicate red berry aromas interweave with herbal and earthy notes reminiscent of forest floor, reflecting the name 'Le Bois' (The Forest). Low alcohol and bright acidity make it a transparent, elegant expression of Japanese natural winemaking.
Decant 15–20 minutes before serving. Its delicate structure rewards patience — enjoy how the earthy, herbal aromas evolve in the glass.
Sommelier's Note
"One of the finest expressions of Cabernet Franc in Japan. The Kurahara terroir gives a forest-floor depth rarely seen outside Burgundy. Seek it out."
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with earthy dishes: sautéed wild mushrooms, herb-crusted lamb, roasted root vegetables. Also complements Japanese cuisine — grilled seasonal vegetables, soy-simmered duck, or light yakitori.
When to drink it
Ideal for an intimate dinner or a quiet evening where you want to savour the subtle nuances of Japanese natural wine.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Cabernet Franc
- Style
- Red, natural
- Price Range
- ¥8,000–12,000
Terroir & Winemaking
Grown in the Kurahara vineyard with organic practices and no herbicides or pesticides. Hand-harvested and naturally fermented with indigenous yeasts. No temperature control, no filtration, no fining, and minimal sulfur. Gravity-fed bottling. Production is extremely limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Kurahara Le Bois taste like?
- Expect delicate red berries, fresh herbs, and an earthy, forest-floor complexity. Low alcohol and bright acidity keep it light and transparent.
- What food pairs best with it?
- Earthy dishes like wild mushroom sauté, herb-crusted lamb, duck confit, or Japanese soy-simmered dishes and seasonal grilled vegetables.
- How is it different from Tsugane Le Bois?
- Both use Cabernet Franc, but the Kurahara site gives a slightly different terroir expression — a comparison tasting reveals the subtle character of each vineyard site.
- When should I drink it?
- Best enjoyed within 3–5 years of vintage. Its delicate structure doesn't require long ageing — drink it while the freshness is vibrant.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
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