About Izu Merlot
- Style
- Red
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot
- Price Range
- ¥3,630-4,070
Izu Merlot is a single-varietal red wine from Naka Izu Winery Chateau T.S., made entirely from Merlot grapes grown in the winery's own hillside vineyard in Izu City, Shizuoka. After fermentation the wine is aged for nine months in oak barrels, developing a medium ruby color with intense aromas of smoked bacon, high-cacao chocolate-toned oak, cassis, black cherry, caramel and dried leaves. On the palate it shows a touch of sweetness balanced by moderate, soft tannins, ripe grape fruit and a long finish with notes of damp earth and gentle bittersweet depth. The 2024 vintage received a Silver Award at the Japan Wine Competition 2026, and alcohol content typically ranges 12.5-13% depending on vintage.
The estate's most focused expression of Izu-grown Merlot — nine months in oak brings a smoky, cacao-tinged depth that few other single-varietal Japanese Merlots can match.
New to wine?
A friendly introduction to Japanese single-varietal Merlot — soft tannins and a touch of sweetness make it easy to enjoy even for those new to full-bodied reds.
Food Pairings
Pairs well with tare-glazed grilled chicken liver yakitori, beef shank braised in red wine, and thick-cut sirloin steak seared and seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Its soft tannins and gentle sweetness also suit home-style Japanese simmered dishes.
When to drink it
Everyday dinners with grilled or braised meat dishes, casual gatherings with friends, and gifting as a representative Izu red wine.
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Merlot from the winery's own hillside vineyard in Izu City, Shizuoka. Aged 9 months in oak barrels after fermentation. Dry style, medium body, 750ml bottle. Alcohol content varies by vintage, typically 12.5-13% (13% for the 2024 vintage per the official shop spec sheet, 12.5% for the 2022 vintage per retailer listing). Silver Award, Japan Wine Competition 2026 (2024 vintage). Store below 25°C.
About the producer
Naka Izu Winery Chateau T.S.Izu's Napa-style estate winery, Japan's 2025 Grand Gold red伊豆市, 静岡県 · Founded 2000Visit the producer page →More wines from Naka Izu Winery Chateau T.S.
- Chateau TS Red DryRed · Muscat Bailey A · Yama Sauvignon · Merlot
- Chateau TS White DryWhite · Koshu
- Chateau TS White SweetSweet · Niagara · Koshu · Chardonnay · Shinano Riesling
- Izu ChardonnayWhite · Chardonnay
- Izu Chardonnay PremiumWhite · Chardonnay
- Izu Extra Sweet (Half)Sweet · Shinano Riesling
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Izu Merlot made from 100% Merlot grapes?
- Yes, Izu Merlot is a single-varietal red wine made entirely from Merlot grown in Naka Izu Winery Chateau T.S.'s own hillside vineyard in Izu City, Shizuoka.
- What does Izu Merlot taste like?
- It shows aromas of smoked bacon, high-cacao chocolate-toned oak, cassis, black cherry and caramel, leading to a palate with a touch of sweetness, moderate soft tannins and a long finish with notes of damp earth.
- What food pairs well with Izu Merlot?
- It pairs beautifully with tare-glazed grilled chicken liver yakitori, beef shank braised in red wine, and salt-and-pepper seared sirloin steak.
- Has Izu Merlot won any awards?
- The 2024 vintage received a Silver Award at the Japan Wine Competition 2026.
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