Minamisanriku Winery
南三陸ワイナリー
Crafting terroir-driven wines aged underwater in Shizugawa Bay.
Established in 2019 in Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture by founder Michihiko Sasaki, Minamisanriku Winery is a boutique producer dedicated to regional revitalization through viticulture following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Located in a coastal town known for its rich marine resources, the winery focuses on creating wines that harmonize with local seafood, particularly oysters and scallops from Shizugawa Bay. The winery pioneered a unique underwater aging process, submerging bottles for around six to eight months alongside oyster farming rafts in Shizugawa Bay, where stable temperatures and gentle vibrations from the sea are said to mellow and accelerate the wine's maturation, comparable to roughly two years of aging on land. By bridging the gap between the mountains and the ocean, Minamisanriku Winery produces terroir-driven wines from Chardonnay, Merlot and other varieties that reflect the distinct climate and spirit of the Sanriku coast.
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Who Is This For?
Ideal for wine enthusiasts curious about Japan's most distinctive aging technique and those who enjoy pairing regional wines with fresh Sanriku seafood or supporting community-driven, post-disaster revitalization projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Minamisanriku Winery's aging method unique?
- The winery submerges finished wine bottles in Shizugawa Bay for about six to eight months alongside oyster farming rafts. The stable underwater temperature and gentle vibrations mellow the wine, producing a maturity comparable to roughly two years of aging on land.
- When and why was the winery founded?
- Founder Michihiko Sasaki established the winery in 2019 after volunteering in the Sanriku region following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, with the goal of using viticulture to help revitalize the local community.
- Which grape varieties does the winery use?
- Minamisanriku Winery produces wine from grapes such as Chardonnay and Merlot, sourced from vineyards in and around Minamisanriku.
- Can visitors tour the winery or taste the underwater-aged wine?
- Yes, the winery offers tours and tastings, including its signature underwater-aged wine, allowing visitors to learn about the production process while enjoying views of Shizugawa Bay.