pon nitay

About this wine

The flagship estate white from Lan Seqqua, named 'pon nitay' from the Ainu language — 'pon' meaning small, 'nitay' meaning forest. The wine is inspired by the crisp, clear air of a Hokkaido forest. A co-fermented field blend led by Pinot Gris (approx. 48%) and Gewürztraminer (approx. 26%), with Pinot Noir (approx. 17%) and other varieties completing the blend. Skin contact and whole-bunch maceration are employed by variety. Aged one year in old barrel. Annual production approximately 1,300–2,000 bottles, sold exclusively in Hokkaido.

Sommelier's Note

"The Ainu-named forest wine rivalling Alsatian complexity — Japan's finest white"

Food Pairings

Wonderful with fragrant, delicate dishes: white fish carpaccio, scallop with citrus dressing, chicken in sesame sauce, mild Thai or Vietnamese cuisine. The spice and floral notes from Gewürztraminer complement aromatic cuisines beautifully.

When to drink it

Aperitif, Japanese omakase dinner, aromatic cuisine pairing, gifting to natural wine enthusiasts

Specs

Grape Varieties

Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Sylvaner, Riesling, Pinot Blanc

Style

White

Price Range

¥3,520

Terroir & Winemaking

Gewürztraminer: approx. 10 days skin contact. Other varieties: approx. 5 days whole-bunch maceration. Co-fermented and blended, aged one year in old oak barrel. Natural yeast throughout; sulfur added at bottling only. ABV approx. 11.5%.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'pon nitay' mean?

It's an Ainu language phrase: 'pon' means small and 'nitay' means forest. The name reflects the wine's theme — the clear, cool air of a Hokkaido forest distilled into a glass.

What does pon nitay taste like?

Aromatic and layered with notes of white peach, lychee, rose petal, and warm spice from the Gewürztraminer. The acidity is crisp and mineral. Brief skin contact adds a subtle texture without heavy tannin.

Is pon nitay an orange wine?

It uses skin contact but is closer to a textured white than a full orange wine. Maceration runs about 5–10 days depending on variety, adding body and complexity without deep color.

Where can I find pon nitay?

Annual production is around 1,300–2,000 bottles, distributed exclusively to selected wine shops in Hokkaido. It typically sells out quickly after the spring release.