Blaufränkisch Private Reserve

Blaufränkisch Private Reserve is the top-tier still red bottling in Camel Farm Winery's "Private Reserve" line, made from 100% Blaufränkisch grown in the winery's own vineyards in the Nobori district of Yoichi, Hokkaido — a cool, maritime, high-latitude site (43°N) with vines dating back over 40 years. Grapes are hand-harvested in late October and vinified as a dry still red, then aged for around 8 months in French oak barriques (roughly 50% new, 50% used). The result is a brilliant garnet-hued wine with aromas of wild berry, blackberry, blueberry, clove, licorice, and forest floor, layered over soft, concentrated fruit, bright acidity, and powdery tannins. The wine has drawn major international recognition: the 2020 vintage won Gold at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2022 and was named one of only three "Wines of the Year" by DWWA's Asia-region top judges — the first time a Japanese wine won gold in the Blaufränkisch category, notable since the grape is closely associated with Austria. Subsequent vintages have continued to medal at DWWA, including Silver, Platinum, and Gold in later years. Alcohol has ranged from roughly 12.5% to 13% depending on vintage. This still red is distinct from the winery's Blaufränkisch Brut Nature Dosage Zero, a Charmat-method sparkling wine vinified as a white from the same grape.