About this wine
Izutsu Additive-free Concord is a seasonal, unfiltered 'nama' (fresh) red wine made entirely from Concord grapes grown in Kikyogahara, Shiojiri, Nagano — the same appellation that produces Izutsu's celebrated Merlot. Bottled directly from the fermentation tank near the end of primary fermentation, with no added sulfites, no heat pasteurization, and only minimal filtration, it preserves the grape's raw, juice-like vibrancy. The result is a semi-sweet, cloudy (nigori) red with a distinctly grapey, candy-like aroma and a soft, easy-drinking palate. Because residual yeast activity continues in the bottle, it often carries a gentle natural spritz that can intensify with time and warmth, so it must be kept refrigerated (10°C or below) and is best enjoyed soon after purchase. Released once a year as a limited autumn 'shinshu' (new wine), it sells out quickly each season.
A gentle, low-tannin, semi-sweet red that tastes like fresh grape juice with a whisper of fizz — an easy, welcoming introduction to Japanese domestic wine for those who find typical reds too dry or tannic.
Sommelier's Note
"This is the truest taste of Concord grape you'll find in a bottle — unfiltered, unpasteurized, and utterly honest. If you want to understand why Japanese 'nama-budoshu' has such a devoted following, start here."
Food Pairings
Its natural sweetness and soft acidity make it a versatile match for Japanese home cooking — teriyaki chicken, soy-glazed simmered fish (nimono), yakitori with sweet-savory tare, and grilled mochi. It also works well with mild cheeses, fresh fruit, and light appetizers, and is delicious served lightly chilled.
When to drink it
Casual autumn gatherings, home dinners, and as a seasonal 'new wine' treat to share with friends when it's released each November.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Concord
- Style
- Red
- Alcohol
- 12.5
- Price Range
- ¥1,700-1,900
Terroir & Winemaking
Made from 100% Concord grapes grown in the Kikyogahara district of Shiojiri, Nagano. Vinified with no added sulfites (antioxidants) or preservatives, no heat pasteurization, and minimal filtration; bottled directly from the fermentation tank shortly before fermentation completes. Because live yeast remains in the bottle, secondary fermentation can continue in cold storage, producing a natural light effervescence. Released as a single seasonal batch each autumn ('shinshu'/nouveau-style), requiring cold-chain shipping and refrigerated storage at 10°C or below.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Izutsu Additive-free Concord taste like?
- It tastes like fresh, ripe Concord grape juice — semi-sweet, cloudy, and fruity, with a soft palate and often a gentle natural fizz from ongoing fermentation in the bottle.
- Why does this wine sometimes have bubbles?
- Because it is bottled with no added sulfites and while live yeast is still present, fermentation can continue slowly in the bottle, especially if stored warm, producing a light natural sparkle.
- How should I store and serve it?
- Keep it refrigerated at 10°C or below at all times and drink it soon after purchase to enjoy its freshest, fruitiest character. Serve lightly chilled.
- Is this wine available year-round?
- No — it is a limited seasonal release ('shinshu', new wine), bottled once a year in autumn from that year's Concord harvest and sold only while stocks last.
- What food pairs well with it?
- Japanese home cooking with sweet-savory flavors, such as teriyaki chicken, soy-simmered fish, and yakitori, as well as mild cheeses and fresh fruit.
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