About Deni Selection
- Style
- Red
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot
- Price Range
- ¥4,576
- 720ml
- Alcohol
- 12%
Deni Selection is the premium, barrel-aged tier of Sunmamoru Winery's Deni line, made from 100% Merlot grown on the winery's estate vineyard on the Shimokita Peninsula in Mutsu City, Aomori — Japan's northernmost wine region. Deep ruby in color, it opens with maraschino cherry and blueberry-jam berry aromas layered with oak-derived nuances of toasted nuts, smoke, and vanilla. Cool-climate acidity balances rich, fruit-driven concentration for a fuller-bodied wine that is noticeably more complex than the standard Deni. Bottled under natural cork (unlike the regular Deni's screw cap) to support further bottle aging, and recommended to cellar for a few years to develop an even smoother, more supple character.
The Deni line's true expression of Aomori Merlot — the barrel aging gives this Selection tier a depth and length the regular Deni simply doesn't have.
New to wine?
A step up from the standard Deni — still an approachable Bordeaux-style Merlot, but with added oak complexity for those ready to explore further.
Food Pairings
The oak-derived depth pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meat, lamb, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses. The bright acidity also works well with tomato-based sauces.
When to drink it
Special dinners, celebrations, and gifts for those who already enjoy the standard Deni.
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Merlot grown on Sunmamoru Winery's estate vineyard on the Shimokita Peninsula, Mutsu City, Aomori. Barrel-aged for greater complexity versus the standard Deni bottling. 2018 vintage, 720ml, natural cork closure (the regular Deni uses a screw cap). JAN code 4562257790630.
About the producer
Sunmamoru WineryHonshu's northernmost winery, award-winning Pinot Noirむつ市, 青森県 · Founded 2007Visit the producer page →Frequently Asked Questions
- How is Deni Selection different from the regular Deni?
- Both are 100% Merlot from the same Shimokita estate vineyard, but Deni Selection is barrel-aged, sealed with natural cork instead of a screw cap, fuller-bodied, and noticeably more complex — with toasted nut, smoke, and vanilla notes the standard Deni doesn't have.
- What does Deni Selection taste like?
- Deep ruby in color with maraschino cherry and blueberry jam aromas layered with oak-derived toasted nuts, smoke, and vanilla, balanced by cool-climate acidity and a fuller, more concentrated body than the standard Deni.
- Can Deni Selection be aged further?
- Yes. Unlike the screw-capped standard Deni, it is bottled under natural cork specifically to support further bottle aging, and the winery recommends cellaring it a few more years for an even smoother, more supple character.
- What food pairs best with Deni Selection?
- Its oak-driven complexity suits grilled or roasted red meat, lamb, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses, while its bright acidity also complements umami-rich Japanese dishes like sukiyaki.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
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