About Takahata Classic Muscat Bailey A
- Style
- Red
- Grape Varieties
- Muscat Bailey A, Merlot
- Price Range
- ¥1,600-1,900
- Alcohol
- 13
Takahata Classic Muscat Bailey A is the flagship red of Takahata Winery's 'Classique' line, blending Japan's signature grape Muscat Bailey A with Takahata-grown Merlot for added structure. Small, highly ripened Muscat Bailey A berries from contract farms in Takahata town are vinified using saignée to concentrate flavor and tannin, then blended with Merlot to build depth. The result is a brilliant ruby-colored, medium-bodied red with a honeyed, floral bouquet typical of Muscat Bailey A, subtle oak nuance, and concentrated cassis and blackberry fruit underpinned by Merlot's structure. The wine has earned repeated honors, including a Silver Medal at the Sakura Wine Award 2016 (2014 vintage) and a Gold Medal at the Sakura Wine Award 2021 (2018 vintage).
This bottle shows exactly why blending Muscat Bailey A with a touch of Merlot works so well — the honeyed, floral MBA aromatics stay front and center while Merlot quietly supplies the backbone.
New to wine?
A friendly, low-tannin introduction to Japan's native red grape — soft, fruity, and easy to enjoy even for those new to red wine.
Food Pairings
A versatile match for dishes with a touch of sweetness or umami: yakitori glazed with tare sauce, nikujaga (meat and potato stew), unagi kabayaki, and teriyaki chicken. Also pairs well with charcuterie and mild cheeses.
When to drink it
Casual dinners, everyday Japanese home cooking, and gatherings with friends.
Terroir & Winemaking
Small-berried, highly ripened Muscat Bailey A from contract-farmed vineyards in Takahata town, vinified with saignée to concentrate color, flavor and tannin, then blended with Takahata-grown Merlot for structure. Medium-bodied with soft, well-balanced tannins. ABV approx. 13%. 720ml bottle.
About the producer
Takahata WineryTohoku's largest winery with a 100-year quality vision高畠町, 山形県 · Founded 1990Visit the producer page →Frequently Asked Questions
- What grapes are used in Takahata Classic Muscat Bailey A?
- It is primarily Muscat Bailey A, Japan's signature red grape, blended with Takahata-grown Merlot for added structure and depth.
- What does it taste like?
- Ruby-colored and medium-bodied, with a honeyed, floral bouquet typical of Muscat Bailey A, subtle oak nuance, and concentrated cassis and blackberry flavors supported by Merlot's structure.
- What food pairs well with it?
- Japanese dishes with a touch of sweetness or umami, such as tare-glazed yakitori, nikujaga, unagi kabayaki, and teriyaki chicken.
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