About this wine
Sakai Winery, the oldest winery in the Tohoku region founded in 1892, produces this flagship red wine from its own vineyard in the Nagoyama area of Akayu. Crafted using wild yeast fermentation, no filtration, and no fining, it is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot aged in oak barrels for 12 months. It offers complex aromas of cassis, cedar, and spices, with a structured palate of rich fruit and soft, integrated tannins reflecting the unique terroir of the Yamagata mountains.
A sophisticated yet approachable Japanese red that showcases the beauty of minimal-intervention winemaking.
Sommelier's Note
"Yamagata's terroir masterpiece—Japan's answer to world-class Bordeaux-style red."
Food Pairings
Pairs exceptionally well with rich meat dishes such as Wagyu beef steak, grilled lamb, or hearty stews. Its structured tannins also complement aged cheeses and umami-rich mushroom dishes.
When to drink it
Perfect for special dinners, celebrations, or as a thoughtful gift for wine enthusiasts who appreciate authentic, terroir-driven Japanese wines.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- Style
- Red
- Price Range
- ¥4,000–6,000
Terroir & Winemaking
Grapes grown using regenerative agriculture with sheep grazing for weed control. Fermented with wild yeasts, followed by 12 months of barrel aging. Bottled without filtration or fining to preserve natural character.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does it taste like?
- Deep notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and spice, with a medium-to-full body and soft, well-integrated tannins.
- What food pairs best with this wine?
- Best enjoyed with high-quality beef dishes like Wagyu steak or sukiyaki.
- Is it suitable for aging?
- Yes, it is a long-aging type that develops more complexity and vibrant fruit character over time.
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マスカットベーリーA ブラッククイーン
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Sakai Winery, the oldest winery in the Tohoku region, crafts this unique red wine by blending Muscat Bailey A and Black Queen grapes harvested from their own vineyards in Akayu, Yamagata. Following their traditional philosophy, the wine is produced using a non-filtration method to preserve the purity of the fruit. It offers a mellow, fruit-forward aroma with comfortable tannins and a balanced acidity, resulting in a gentle, deeply satisfying taste that reflects the cool climate and mineral-rich terroir of the region.
バーダップワイン 白
Birdup Wine White
WhiteDelaware · Koshu · Rosario Rosso
Sakai Winery, the oldest winery in the Tohoku region founded in 1892, produces this iconic natural wine. The name 'Birdup' is derived from 'Toriagezaka' (the slope of the soaring birds), the historic vineyard site in Akayu, Nanyo City. This white wine is crafted with a minimal intervention philosophy, often utilizing wild yeast fermentation and non-filtered methods. The blend of grape varieties, primarily Delaware, varies by vintage, reflecting the unique character of each harvest. It typically presents a slightly hazy, pale yellow appearance with refreshing aromas of toasted yeast, quince, apricot, and lemongrass. The palate is mellow and balanced, offering a crisp, clean finish that captures the essence of Yamagata's terroir.