Tsugane a hum Pinot Blanc

About this wine

Tsugane a hum Pinot Blanc is a skin-contact orange wine from Eishi Okamoto of Beau Paysage, produced in approximately 300 bottles per vintage from the Tsugane vineyard at 800m elevation, Yamanashi. The 'a hum' (ア・ハム) label denotes Okamoto's most minimal-intervention experiments: the Pinot Blanc grapes ferment with their skins, yielding a washed-out orange-peel hue with extraordinary aromatic complexity — pomelo, IPA hops, dried mango, jasmine, and Sri Lankan green tea. Lighter than the Pinot Gris, with a floral lift and clean textural energy that makes it instantly recognisable as a Japanese natural wine masterpiece.

Sommelier's Note

"The 'a hum' Pinot Blanc is where Beau Paysage goes furthest from convention — and the result is stunning. Pomelo, jasmine, and dried mango on a skin-contact structure: this is Japan's answer to the great orange wines of the world."

Food Pairings

The wine's aromatic complexity and gentle tannin make it a natural companion for Asian cuisine. Pairs brilliantly with Thai green curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, Japanese gyoza, sashimi of white fish, tempura with tentsuyu dipping broth, and fresh herb-laden dishes. Also excellent with goat cheese and charcuterie.

When to drink it

Ideal for exploring Japanese natural wine at its most expressive, summer dining, Asian cuisine pairings, or gifting to a natural wine enthusiast.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Pinot Blanc

Style

orange, natural, skin-contact

Price Range

¥8,000-12,000

Terroir & Winemaking

Grown at approximately 800m elevation in the Tsugane block, Yamanashi Prefecture. Hand-harvested at optimal phenolic ripeness. Extended skin-contact fermentation with indigenous wild yeasts produces the characteristic pale orange hue. No temperature control. Minimal SO₂. Bottled by gravity without fining or filtration. Production: approximately 300 bottles per vintage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 'a hum' Pinot Blanc taste like?

It is an orange wine with washed-out orange-peel colour and aromas of pomelo, IPA hops, dried mango, jasmine and Sri Lankan green tea — lighter and more floral than the Pinot Gris version.

Is this the same wine as 'A Hum' listed on some retailers?

Yes. 'A Hum' (sometimes without the accent) refers to the same Beau Paysage skin-contact series from Tsugane.

What food pairs best with it?

White fish sashimi, herb-laden vegetable tempura, gyoza, Thai green curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, and goat cheese all pair exceptionally well.

How rare is this wine?

Approximately 300 bottles are produced per vintage, making it one of the hardest wines to obtain from Beau Paysage.

How does it differ from the Pinot Gris 'a hum'?

The Pinot Blanc version is lighter, more floral, and more aromatic, while the Pinot Gris tends to be slightly fuller with more dried orange peel character.