About this wine
Crafted at Rita Farm & Winery in Yoichi, Hokkaido, this wine is made from 100% estate-grown Merlot. The grapes are harvested from the 'Kaze no Vineyard,' a site known for its excellent sunlight exposure. Following a philosophy of minimal intervention, the wine is fermented naturally with wild yeasts and aged in old barrels. It offers a light, natural, and elegant profile, characterized by notes of raspberry, blackberry, and cassis, with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins that reflect the unique terroir of Yoichi.
A perfect introduction to Japanese natural wine; it is light, approachable, and incredibly food-friendly.
Sommelier's Note
"This is a masterpiece of Japanese terroir that must be experienced; its purity and balance are unmatched in the region."
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken with herbs, roasted duck, or mushroom-based dishes. Its elegant acidity also makes it a great match for Japanese cuisine such as grilled eel with soy-based sauce (Unagi no Kabayaki) or seared bonito (Katsuo no Tataki).
When to drink it
Ideal for a relaxed dinner with friends or a special evening pairing with seasonal Japanese dishes.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot
- Style
- Red
- Price Range
- ¥5,000-7,000
Terroir & Winemaking
100% estate-grown Merlot. Fermented naturally with wild yeasts. Aged for one year in old barrels. Gravity-fed liquid transfer and bottling to minimize stress on the wine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does it taste like?
- It features a light, elegant profile with vibrant notes of raspberry, blackberry, and cassis, supported by silky tannins.
- What food should I pair it with?
- It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, mushroom dishes, and Japanese classics like Unagi no Kabayaki.
- When is the best time to drink it?
- It is delicious upon release, but aging it for 1-2 years will further soften the acidity and enhance its complexity.
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Talk to the SommelierMore wines from this producer
リタ ピノノワール
Rita Pinot Noir
RedPinot Noir
Rita Pinot Noir is a still red wine crafted by Rita Farm & Winery, a boutique domaine-style producer in the Noritani district of Yoichi, Hokkaido. Made from 100% estate-grown Pinot Noir from the Kaze no Vineyard (Wind Vineyard), grapes are harvested from both south- and north-facing plots and vinified using whole-cluster fermentation with wild yeast. Minimal intervention and gravity-based transfers preserve the delicate terroir expression. The wine offers aromas of raspberry, cinnamon, and leather that evolve beautifully with temperature, backed by soft, pleasant tannins and lively fruit.
風のヴィンヤード シャルドネ
Kaze no Vineyard Chardonnay
WhiteChardonnay
Produced by Rita Farm & Winery in Yoichi, Hokkaido, this Chardonnay is crafted exclusively from estate-grown grapes. The vineyard, named 'Kaze no Vineyard' (Windy Vineyard) for the southern winds that sweep through the Yoichi Bay, features a gentle southern slope. The winemaking process is minimal and natural, utilizing whole-bunch pressing, wild yeast fermentation in stainless steel tanks, and gravity-flow bottling to preserve the wine's integrity. It offers a refined profile with citrus aromas, a savory finish, plump fruitiness, and clean, vibrant acidity.
風のヴィンヤード ソーヴィニヨン・ブラン
Kaze no Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
WhiteSauvignon Blanc
Produced by Rita Farm & Winery in Yoichi, Hokkaido, this Sauvignon Blanc is crafted from 100% estate-grown grapes. The vineyard, located on a gentle southern slope, is named 'Kaze no Vineyard' (Windy Vineyard) due to the strong winds blowing toward Yoichi Bay. The wine is made using wild yeast fermentation in stainless steel tanks, followed by sur lie aging to add depth and texture. It features a crisp, cool-climate acidity, vibrant citrus notes of grapefruit and lime, and a distinct mineral character. The winemaking process emphasizes minimal intervention, utilizing gravity flow for bottling to preserve the purity and natural essence of the terroir.