About this wine
pur. Pinot Noir 2023 is the inaugural single-varietal red from pur., a micro-estate on the highest plateau of Niki-cho, Yoichi District, Hokkaido (130-150m elevation). Made entirely from Pinot Noir grown on roughly 7-year-old vines in the estate's clay-rich, north-facing plots, the wine was fermented with wild yeast, macerated for one week, and aged 10 months in barrel through commissioned winemaking at Yamada-do. Only 1,000 bottles were produced and the wine is not sold commercially -- it is poured exclusively at local events and tastings, reflecting the pur. philosophy of harvesting quality grapes and adding nothing.
A rare, ultra-limited first release -- earthy, spicy, and umami-driven rather than fruit-forward, making it a fascinating (if hard-to-find) intro to serious Hokkaido Pinot Noir.
Sommelier's Note
"pur.'s debut Pinot Noir trades fruit-forward flash for earthy spice and umami depth -- a serious, terroir-driven statement from Niki-cho's highest vineyard, even if you'll have to catch it in person to taste it."
Food Pairings
With its earthy spice, cinnamon-like nuance, and umami-driven finish, this Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, mushroom dishes, and grilled yakitori with tare sauce. It also complements simmered fish (nimono) and lightly seasoned wagyu.
When to drink it
Special tastings and wine tourism events in Niki-cho, or as a story to share with serious Hokkaido wine collectors (not available for retail purchase).
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Pinot Noir
- Style
- Red
- Vintage
- 2023
- Price Range
- Not for retail sale (event-only, 1,000 bottles produced)
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Pinot Noir from vines averaging 7 years old, grown in clay-rich, north-facing plots at the highest point in Niki-cho. Fermented with indigenous wild yeast, macerated for one week, then aged 10 months in oak barrels through commissioned winemaking (itaku-jozo) at Yamada-do, whose winemaker trained at Domaine Takahiko.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is pur. Pinot Noir 2023 available for purchase?
- No -- only 1,000 bottles were produced and the wine is not sold commercially; it is served at local events and tastings in Niki-cho.
- What does it taste like?
- Earthy and spicy with cinnamon-like nuances, layered fruit, bright acidity, umami depth, and very gentle tannins with a lingering savory finish.
- How was it made?
- 100% Pinot Noir from roughly 7-year-old estate vines, fermented with wild yeast, macerated for one week, and aged 10 months in barrel through commissioned winemaking at Yamada-do.
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Talk to the SommelierMore wines from this producer
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pur. Blanc is a white blend from pur., a micro-estate on the highest plateau of Niki-cho (130–150m elevation), Hokkaido. Owner Tanyama Tokichi grows Chardonnay (45%) and Kerner alongside six other varieties in clay-rich, north-facing plots. The wine is produced at Yamada-do with minimal intervention — expressing the pur. philosophy of pressing quality grapes as-is and adding nothing. The Blanc captures cool-climate elegance through crisp acidity, delicate floral aromatics, and nuanced fruit.
ピュール ルージュ
pur. Rouge
RedPinot Noir · Zweigelt
pur. Rouge is a red blend from pur., a tiny estate on the highest plateau of Niki-cho, Yoichi District, Hokkaido, at 130–150m elevation. Owner Tanyama Tokichi harvests Pinot Noir and Zweigelt from clay-rich, north-facing plots and produces the wine through commissioned winemaking at Yamada-do, whose winemaker trained at the legendary Domaine Takahiko. Following the pur. philosophy — harvest quality grapes, press them as-is, add nothing — the Rouge captures cool-climate vibrancy with red berries, subtle spice, and a refreshing, elegant acidity.