About Merlot
- Style
- Red
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot
- Price Range
- ¥8,800
Merlot grown in volcanic silty loam soils at Yatsugatake, aged 12 months in stainless steel. A natural, powerful expression of Yatsugatake terroir, with multi-layered aromas of fresh plum, green pepper, and cacao nibs emerging simultaneously on the attack.
A distinctive Merlot that captures the cool volcanic terroir of Yatsugatake. The multi-layered attack of plum, green pepper, and cacao nibs is unlike any Merlot from traditional regions — a genuine expression of Japanese viticulture.
New to wine?
An exceptional entry point into premium Japanese wine, offering a smooth and approachable profile that demonstrates the true potential of Merlot in Japan.
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled lamb, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses. Its balanced acidity also complements umami-rich Japanese dishes like sukiyaki.
When to drink it
Ideal for special dinners with meat dishes, or as a prestigious gift for wine connoisseurs exploring Japanese red wine.
Terroir & Winemaking
100% estate-grown Merlot from volcanic silty loam soils at Yatsugatake. Hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Aged 12 months in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and express pure terroir character. No pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
About the producer
Domaine Mie IkenoA French-trained oenologist crafting Japan's most sought-after 'phantom wine' in the Yatsugatake highlands: just 800 cases a year, gravity-flow winemaking, and grapes sometimes harvested by moonlight, all in pursuit of wine that quietly nestles into the body.北杜市, 山梨県 · Founded 2011Visit the producer page →More wines from Domaine Mie Ikeno
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does it taste like?
- It features multi-layered aromas of fresh plum, green pepper, and cacao nibs, with clean tannins and a refreshing mineral finish.
- What food should I pair it with?
- It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, mushroom dishes, and umami-rich Japanese cuisine like sukiyaki or grilled eel.
- When is the best time to drink it?
- It is ready to drink now but will continue to gain complexity over the next 5-10 years with proper cellaring.
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