About Grande Polaire Nagano Chardonnay
- Style
- White
- Grape Varieties
- Chardonnay
- Price Range
- ¥2,500-3,400
Grande Polaire Nagano Chardonnay is a 100%-Chardonnay bottling in Grande Polaire's entry-level Character Series, made from Chardonnay grapes grown across Nagano Prefecture (not tied to a single named vineyard, unlike the brand's Furusato or Hokuto single-vineyard wines). Released October 11, 2023 under the cultivation lead Kazuyuki Karube, the wine is fermented and mostly tank-aged, with a portion aged in oak barrels to add texture and depth without heavy wood character. Nagano's wide diurnal temperature swings preserve bright acidity in the fruit, while the region's lean, well-drained soils concentrate flavor — conditions the producer likens to those of classic French Chardonnay country. Hand-harvested and finished as a crisp dry white, it shows citrus and pineapple aromatics with rich, well-balanced acidity.
Nagano's wide day-night temperature swing is what gives this Chardonnay its backbone — the acidity here is more precise than its Character Series price point would suggest.
New to wine?
A friendly, food-versatile introduction to Japanese Chardonnay — bright citrus and pineapple notes with crisp acidity, without heavy oak to intimidate newcomers.
Food Pairings
The producer's own pairing recommendation is sea bream (tai) carpaccio and tempura. The wine's citrus-driven acidity also works well with other lightly prepared white fish, shellfish, and fried foods where a squeeze of lemon would normally be welcome.
When to drink it
Everyday dinners with seafood or tempura, casual gatherings, and an easy introduction to Nagano white wine.
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Chardonnay hand-harvested from vineyards across Nagano Prefecture. Vinified as a dry white, aged mainly in stainless tank with a portion in oak barrels. Bottled at 750ml; producer recommends serving at 8-10°C. Part of the Grande Polaire Character Series, positioned below the brand's single-vineyard Furusato and Hokuto lines.
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
- Grande Polaire Azumino Ikeda Cabernet SauvignonRed · Cabernet Sauvignon
- Grande Polaire Azumino Ikeda ChardonnayWhite · Chardonnay
- Grande Polaire Azumino Ikeda Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs (Traditional Method)Sparkling · Chardonnay
- Grande Polaire Azumino Ikeda MeritageRed · Cabernet Sauvignon · Merlot
- Grande Polaire Azumino Ikeda MerlotRed · Merlot
- Grande Polaire Azumino Ikeda Pinot NoirRed · Pinot Noir
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Grande Polaire Nagano Chardonnay taste like?
- It's a crisp, dry white with citrus and pineapple aromatics and rich, well-balanced acidity, with subtle added texture from partial oak aging.
- What food pairs best with it?
- The producer recommends sea bream (tai) carpaccio and tempura; it also suits other light white fish, shellfish, and lightly fried dishes.
- Is this a single-vineyard wine?
- No. Unlike Grande Polaire's Furusato or Hokuto single-vineyard Chardonnays, this Character Series bottling is sourced from Chardonnay grapes grown across Nagano Prefecture generally.
- At what temperature should it be served?
- The producer recommends serving it chilled, at 8-10°C.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
Talk to the Sommelier