About Koshu Sur Lie Sparkling Unfiltered
- Style
- White, Sparkling
- Grape Varieties
- Koshu
- Price Range
- ¥2,000-3,000
- 720-750ml, varies by vintage and retailer
- Alcohol
- 12%
A 100% Koshu white wine grown in Hakushu, Hokuto City, Yamanashi, at the foot of the Southern Alps. Fermented in tank and then aged on its lees (sur lie method) for around six months before being bottled unfiltered, preserving the fine lees and a delicate, naturally occurring effervescence left over from fermentation. Charmant Wine releases a new vintage of this cuvée most years, so specific vintages vary, but the house style stays consistent: crisp acidity, a subtly savory, umami-rich texture from the unfiltered lees, and a refreshing light sparkle. Released under Charmant Wine's numbered house label (F-9) and sold through the winery's own shop as well as specialty retailers such as KURURA STORE and Yoshizawa Wine Shop.
Unfiltered sur lie Koshu with natural micro-bubbles is a rare combination — it shows a purer, more textured side of Koshu than the clean-filtered versions most drinkers know.
New to wine?
A gentle, low-fizz introduction to unfiltered Japanese white wine — the natural sparkle and soft umami make it easy to enjoy even if you're new to sur lie or unfiltered styles.
Food Pairings
The bright acidity and light effervescence make it a natural match for sashimi, tempura, grilled white fish, and other delicate Japanese dishes; its umami-leaning texture from the unfiltered lees also pairs well with tofu and lightly seasoned vegetable dishes.
When to drink it
Casual weeknight dinners, aperitif before a Japanese meal, or a light everyday sparkling alternative.
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Koshu grapes sourced from Hakushu, Hokuto City, Yamanashi. Tank-fermented, then aged sur lie (on the lees) for approximately six months. Bottled unfiltered without lees removal, retaining natural residual CO2 from fermentation for a gentle sparkle. ABV approx. 12%.
About the producer
Charmant WineHokuto estate winery devoted to Cabernet Franc北杜市, 山梨県 · Founded 1963Visit the producer page →Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this wine sparkling if it's not labeled as a sparkling wine in the traditional sense?
- It isn't force-carbonated or made by the traditional or tank method. The gentle fizz comes naturally from residual CO2 produced during fermentation, which is retained because the wine is bottled unfiltered without additional degassing.
- Why is it unfiltered, and what does that do to the taste?
- Skipping filtration keeps fine lees particles in the wine, adding a subtly savory, umami-rich texture and body compared to a standard clarified Koshu.
- What food pairs best with it?
- Its crisp acidity and light effervescence suit delicate Japanese dishes especially well — sashimi, tempura, and grilled white fish are classic matches.
- How should it be stored and served?
- Because it is unfiltered and retains natural carbonation, it should be kept chilled in a refrigerator or wine cellar and served cold, similar to a light sparkling wine.
Want to know more about this wine?
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