About Ajiron
- Style
- Red, Sweet
- Grape Varieties
- Adirondack
- Price Range
- ¥2,200-2,500
- Alcohol
- 9%
Ajiron is Monde Winery's sweet red wine made from 100% Adirondack, a rare 'phantom' black grape grown almost exclusively around Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture. The wine shows a vivid ruby color with vibrant aromas of strawberry jam and cranberry, layered over concentrated, juicy fruit flavors. A crisp, bright acidity balances the natural sweetness on the finish, making it an easy-drinking, dessert-friendly red.
Ajiron is one of the rare reds you can hand to a self-declared 'red wine hater' without hesitation — it drinks like a fruity berry cordial while still carrying real varietal character from a nearly extinct Yamanashi grape.
New to wine?
A gentle, juicy introduction to red wine — more like a fruity berry punch than a classic tannic red, with almost no bitterness.
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with chocolate and cocoa-based desserts such as gateau chocolat; also enjoyable with fresh berries, fruit tarts, and other sweet, fruity dishes.
When to drink it
Great as a welcome drink at parties or gatherings, and equally at home alongside chocolate desserts at the end of a meal.
Terroir & Winemaking
Made from 100% Adirondack grapes grown in Yamanashi Prefecture, mainly around Katsunuma — a rare hybrid variety nicknamed the 'phantom black grape.' ABV 9%, 720ml bottle. Best served well chilled at around 8-12°C.
About the producer
Monde WineryPioneer of Japanese canned wine, crafting since 1952笛吹市, 山梨県 · Founded 1952Visit the producer page →Frequently Asked Questions
- What grape is Ajiron made from?
- Ajiron is made from 100% Adirondack, a rare black grape variety grown almost exclusively around Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, often called the 'phantom grape' due to its very limited cultivation.
- Is Ajiron a sweet or dry wine?
- Ajiron is a sweet-style red wine with 9% ABV, showing juicy strawberry jam and cranberry aromas balanced by a crisp acidity on the finish.
- What food pairs well with Ajiron?
- Serve it well chilled alongside chocolate desserts such as gateau chocolat, fresh berries, or fruit tarts; it also works nicely as a light aperitif.
- Is Adirondack a common wine grape in Japan?
- No — Adirondack is a historic but now very rare variety, said to have been used in Japan's first-ever red wine in the 1870s, and today it is cultivated almost only around Katsunuma, Yamanashi.
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