How is this different from Grande Polaire's standard Koshu?

Unlike Grande Polaire's standard Koshu, this bottling is fermented and aged in oak barrels, which add a soft vanilla-like nuance and creamy texture to Koshu's usual citrus freshness.

What food pairs well with it?

It works well with grilled or steamed white fish, cream-based dishes, and Japanese fare such as tempura or grilled eel (unagi).

Has this wine received any awards?

Grande Polaire Katsunuma Winery's barrel-fermented Koshu has won gold medals at the Japan Wine Competition for three consecutive years.

CuvéeKatsunumaWhite

Grande Polaire Koshu Barrel Fermented

グランポレール甲州樽発酵

Grande Polaire Katsunuma Winery

About Grande Polaire Koshu Barrel Fermented

Style: White
Grape Varieties: Koshu
Price Range: ¥3,000-5,000

Grande Polaire Koshu Barrel Fermented is part of Grande Polaire's Character Series, made from 100% Koshu grapes grown by contracted growers in Katsunuma, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture — the historic heart of Japanese winemaking. Fermentation and aging in oak barrels layer a soft, vanilla-like nuance over Koshu's bright citrus character, balanced by firm acidity and a dry palate that still carries a gentle fruit-derived sweetness. Grande Polaire Katsunuma Winery's barrel-fermented Koshu has repeatedly won gold medals at the Japan Wine Competition.

Sommelier's Note

Proof that Koshu need not stay light and simple — barrel fermentation gives Grande Polaire's Katsunuma Koshu a creamy texture and vanilla-laced depth without losing its native citrus lift.

New to wine?

A good first taste of what barrel aging can do to Japan's native Koshu grape — its usual light citrus profile gains a creamy, vanilla-tinged depth.

Food Pairings

The citrus and vanilla-oak character pairs well with grilled or steamed white fish, cream-based pasta, and roasted chicken; in Japanese cuisine it complements tempura, grilled eel (unagi), and dashi-simmered dishes.

When to drink it

Suited to a slightly special weeknight dinner, a Japanese-cuisine pairing dinner, or as a gift introducing Japan's oak-aged Koshu style.

Terroir & Winemaking

Made from 100% Koshu grapes grown by contracted farmers in Katsunuma, Koshu City, Yamanashi. Fermented and aged in oak barrels, which soften the grape's natural acidity and add texture and vanilla-like aromatics while preserving Koshu's characteristic citrus freshness.

About the producer

Grande Polaire Katsunuma WinerySapporo's premium Japanese-grape winery in Koshu's birthplace, Katsunuma — closed 2025, production moved to Okayama.Founded 1976Visit the producer page →

More wines from Grande Polaire Katsunuma Winery

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from Grande Polaire's standard Koshu?: Unlike Grande Polaire's standard Koshu, this bottling is fermented and aged in oak barrels, which add a soft vanilla-like nuance and creamy texture to Koshu's usual citrus freshness.
What food pairs well with it?: It works well with grilled or steamed white fish, cream-based dishes, and Japanese fare such as tempura or grilled eel (unagi).
Where are the grapes grown?: The Koshu grapes are 100% sourced from contracted growers in Katsunuma, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, the historic birthplace of Japanese winemaking.
Has this wine received any awards?: Grande Polaire Katsunuma Winery's barrel-fermented Koshu has won gold medals at the Japan Wine Competition for three consecutive years.

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