What is Iwanohara's Ephemeral series?

Ephemeral is a new limited series from Iwanohara Vineyard built around the concept of 'the one bottle we want you to drink right now' — a rotating, once-in-a-lifetime release rather than a fixed annual wine.

What grapes are used in Ephemeral No.1?

Ephemeral No.1 is a blend of Koshu, Japan's signature white grape, and Red Millennium, a rare variety bred at Iwanohara and unique to the winery.

What does Ephemeral No.1 taste like?

It has a light, crisp citrus aroma from the Koshu component, layered with Red Millennium's floral, white-peach-like notes, finishing with gentle, balanced acidity in a dry white style.

When was Ephemeral No.1 released and how much does it cost?

It launched on July 18, 2026 as a limited-quantity release, priced at approximately ¥1,980 for a 720ml bottle.

CuvéeNiigataWhite

Ephemeral No.1

エフェメラル No.1

Iwanohara Vineyard

About Ephemeral No.1

Style: White
Grape Varieties: Koshu, Red Millennium
Price Range: ¥1,980; 720ml
Alcohol: 11.5%

Ephemeral No.1 launches Iwanohara Vineyard's new 'Ephemeral' series, built around the idea of 'the one bottle we want you to drink right now' — a fleeting, once-in-a-lifetime wine rather than a fixed annual bottling. It blends Koshu, Japan's signature white grape, with Red Millennium, a Kawakami-bred variety unique to Iwanohara. Koshu contributes a light, crisp citrus lift, while Red Millennium brings floral aromatics, layered white-peach notes, and gentle acidity. Part of the base wine uses cryo-extraction (grapes frozen and pressed to concentrate the must), adding depth and texture. Released July 18, 2026 in limited quantity.

Sommelier's Note

The most interesting way to meet Red Millennium right now — Ephemeral No.1 proves Iwanohara's rare Kawakami-bred grape deserves a spotlight beyond Koshu blends, and this fleeting, one-off release is exactly the kind of wine worth chasing before it's gone.

New to wine?

An easy, food-friendly white to try Iwanohara's rare house grape Red Millennium alongside familiar Koshu — light, aromatic, and approachable.

Food Pairings

A versatile aperitif style: pairs well with citrus-dressed seafood salads, steamed white fish, and soft fresh cheeses. Its gentle acidity and floral lift also suit lightly seasoned poultry dishes.

When to drink it

A seasonal, limited release best enjoyed soon after purchase — ideal for casual aperitifs, light lunches, or as a conversation-starting gift for wine enthusiasts who like discovering something new.

Terroir & Winemaking

Blend of Koshu and Iwanohara's own Red Millennium variety, white/dry style. ABV 11.5%. Bottled at 720ml under screw cap. Serving temperature 6-8°C. Part of the Red Millennium base wine is produced via cryo-extraction (grapes frozen and pressed to concentrate juice).

About the producer

Iwanohara VineyardThe birthplace of Muscat Bailey A and pioneer of Japanese wine.上越市, 新潟県 · Founded 1890Visit the producer page →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Iwanohara's Ephemeral series?: Ephemeral is a new limited series from Iwanohara Vineyard built around the concept of 'the one bottle we want you to drink right now' — a rotating, once-in-a-lifetime release rather than a fixed annual wine.
What grapes are used in Ephemeral No.1?: Ephemeral No.1 is a blend of Koshu, Japan's signature white grape, and Red Millennium, a rare variety bred at Iwanohara and unique to the winery.
What does Ephemeral No.1 taste like?: It has a light, crisp citrus aroma from the Koshu component, layered with Red Millennium's floral, white-peach-like notes, finishing with gentle, balanced acidity in a dry white style.
When was Ephemeral No.1 released and how much does it cost?: It launched on July 18, 2026 as a limited-quantity release, priced at approximately ¥1,980 for a 720ml bottle.

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