About Zephyr Pinot Noir
- Style
- Red
- Grape Varieties
- Pinot Noir
- Price Range
- ¥660-2,420
- Alcohol
- 11.5
Zephyr Pinot Noir is a 100% single-varietal Pinot Noir from Belly Beads Winery's 'Zephyr' (ゼフィール) series — a lineup of single-varietal reds and whites distinct from the winery's flagship 'Le Vent du Bonheur' blends, which are grown in Shiojiri's Kikyogahara district. This Pinot Noir is instead sourced from vineyards in Azumino City, Nagano, at the foot of the Northern Japan Alps, and is certified under Nagano's GI (Geographical Indication) designation. Unoaked, it shows a soft pale ruby color with aromas of raspberry, cherry, blackberry, violet, dried leaf, and leather that add depth to its youthful red-fruit core, finishing with a lingering, slightly savory nuance. Two vintages are currently available: the 2024 vintage (11.5% ABV) and the 2023 vintage (12.5% ABV, with a touch more tea-leaf and smoke character and a light tawny edge to its ruby color). Bottled at 750ml, with the 2024 vintage also available in a 180ml single-serving format.
Proof that excellent Pinot Noir in Japan isn't limited to Kikyogahara — this Azumino-grown bottling offers real varietal character at an entry-level price.
New to wine?
A light, approachable Japanese Pinot Noir with soft tannins — an easy entry point into cool-climate red wine.
Food Pairings
The winery's own pairing suggestions are Yamato-style simmered horse meat (basashi no yamatoni) and a simmered dish of squid and taro — both showcasing the wine's savory, umami-friendly side. Its light tannins and red-fruit character also work well with roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, and soy-glazed grilled chicken (yakitori tare).
When to drink it
Casual weeknight dinners, a relaxed glass with Japanese home cooking, or a gift for someone exploring Japanese wine.
Terroir & Winemaking
Series: 'Zephyr' (ZÉPHYR) — Belly Beads Winery's single-varietal line, distinct from the estate's Kikyogahara-sourced 'Le Vent du Bonheur' series. Grape: 100% Pinot Noir sourced from Azumino City, Nagano (not Kikyogahara). GI Nagano certified. No oak aging. Medium body. 2024 vintage: 11.5% ABV, pale ruby color, raspberry/cherry/blackberry/violet/dried-leaf/leather aromas; available in 180ml and 750ml. 2023 vintage: 12.5% ABV, slightly brownish ruby color, raspberry/cherry/blackberry/violet/black-tea/fallen-leaf/leather/smoke aromas; available in 750ml only.
About the producer
Belly Beads WineryReviving Shiojiri's heritage Niagara and Concord vines塩尻市, 長野県 · Founded 2018Visit the producer page →More wines from Belly Beads Winery
- Le Vent du Bonheur ConcordRed · Concord
- Le Vent du Bonheur Marselan Élevé en FûtRed · Marselan
- Le Vent du Bonheur Merlot Élevé en FûtRed · Merlot
- Le Vent du Bonheur NiagaraWhite · Niagara
- Le Vent du Bonheur RougeRed
- Nishinokaze AlphaRed · Muscat Bailey A
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Zephyr Pinot Noir made from Kikyogahara grapes?
- No. Although Belly Beads Winery is based in Shiojiri's Kikyogahara area, this Pinot Noir is sourced from vineyards in Azumino City, Nagano — the winery's Kikyogahara fruit is reserved for the 'Le Vent du Bonheur' series.
- Is Zephyr Pinot Noir aged in oak barrels?
- No, it is unoaked, which keeps its red-fruit and floral aromatics fresh and forward.
- Which vintage should I choose, 2023 or 2024?
- The 2024 vintage (11.5% ABV) is lighter and more overtly fruity, while the 2023 vintage (12.5% ABV) shows a touch more tea-leaf and smoky, savory nuance with a slightly browner ruby color from a bit more time in bottle.
- What food does it pair with?
- The winery recommends Yamato-style simmered horse meat and a squid-and-taro simmered dish; it also suits roasted duck, grilled salmon, and soy-glazed yakitori.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
Talk to the Sommelier