About this wine
Lumiere Hikari Koshu (光 甲州) is the flagship barrel-aged expression from Lumiere Winery, one of Japan's oldest wineries (est. 1885) in Katsunuma/Fuefuki, Yamanashi. Made entirely from Koshu grapes grown in the winery's own vineyards, it is fermented in French oak barrels and matured in oak for roughly 18 to 20 months. The result is a rich, full-bodied Koshu with ripe quince, apricot and pear aromas layered with butter, roasted nuts and gentle vanilla oak notes, balanced by soft, elegant acidity. The 2018 vintage earned a Platinum medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2021, and the 2022 vintage won Gold in the Koshu category at Kura Master 2025 in Paris, cementing its status as one of the most acclaimed Koshu wines internationally.
A rich, full-bodied introduction to premium Koshu — more approachable in style than lighter, crisper versions thanks to its creamy oak character.
Sommelier's Note
"One of the most decorated Koshu wines on the international stage — its DWWA Platinum medal (2018 vintage) and Kura Master Gold (2022 vintage) prove that barrel-aged Koshu can rival the world's finest oaked whites."
Food Pairings
Its rich, oak-influenced structure makes it a natural match for grilled fish, tempura, sushi and sashimi, while its buttery, nutty depth also pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, creamy pasta and mild cheeses.
When to drink it
Special celebrations, formal Japanese dinners, or as a refined gift for wine enthusiasts.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Koshu
- Style
- White
- Alcohol
- 12%
- Price Range
- ¥3,850-4,730 (varies by vintage)
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Koshu grapes from Lumiere's own vineyards in Fuefuki, Yamanashi. Fermented in French oak barrels and aged in oak for approximately 18-20 months (varies by vintage), producing a fuller-bodied style than typical stainless-steel Koshu. Approx. 12% ABV.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Lumiere Hikari Koshu taste like?
- It's a rich, full-bodied dry white with aromas of quince, apricot and pear layered with butter, roasted nuts and subtle vanilla oak, balanced by soft acidity.
- What food pairs well with it?
- Grilled fish, tempura, sushi, sashimi, roast chicken and creamy pasta all complement its buttery, oak-aged character.
- What makes this Koshu different from lighter styles?
- It's fermented and aged in French oak for about 18-20 months, giving it a fuller body and creamier texture than typical stainless-steel Koshu.
- Has it won any awards?
- Yes — Platinum at the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2021 for the 2018 vintage, and Gold in the Koshu category at Kura Master 2025 for the 2022 vintage.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
Talk to the SommelierMore wines from this producer
シャトー・ルミエール
Château Lumière
RedCabernet Sauvignon · Merlot · Tannat
Château Lumière is the flagship red blend of Lumiere Winery, one of Japan's oldest wineries (est. 1885) in Katsunuma/Fuefuki, Yamanashi. The cuvée traces back to cuttings historically received from Château Margaux, and today blends Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a notably high proportion of Tannat for added color, tannin, and structure, using grapes sourced mainly from Yamanashi and Nagano. Aged in oak barrels for roughly 15 to 18 months, it shows an aromatic nose of blackberry, plum, and sour cherry layered with spice, vanilla, and cedar, backed by firm but polished tannins and medium-full body. It is consistently ranked among the top Japanese red wines and top wines of Yamanashi Prefecture, and has won awards including a silver medal at international competitions.
ルミエール イストワール（白）
Lumiere Histoire Blanc
WhiteDelaware · Chardonnay · Koshu · Merlot
Histoire Blanc is a barrel-fermented, barrel-aged white blend from Lumiere Winery that departs from the pure-Koshu tradition of most Japanese whites. Grapes are sourced across Yamanashi, Yamagata, and Nagano prefectures — Delaware and Chardonnay form the base, joined by Koshu and Merlot for added structure and complexity. The result is an aromatic wine with notes of pineapple, pear, and lychee, layered with honey and white blossom nuances, balanced by refreshing acidity and a rich, rounded finish.
ルミエール 甲州シュール・リー
Lumiere Winery Koshu Sur Lie
WhiteKoshu
Lumiere Koshu Sur Lie is a flagship white wine from Yamanashi, Japan, crafted using the traditional Koshu grape. The 'sur lie' method, where the wine is aged on its lees, imparts a complex, creamy texture and depth to the palate. It showcases a delicate balance of crisp acidity, subtle citrus notes, and a distinct mineral backbone. This wine exemplifies the elegance of Japanese viticulture, offering a clean, refreshing finish that reflects the unique terroir of the Koshu region.