About Sauvignon Éphémère
- Style
- White
- Grape Varieties
- Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Manseng, Chardonnay
- Price Range
- ¥3,000-3,600
Sauvignon Éphémère is a limited cuvée from Woody Farm & Winery in Kaminoyama, Yamagata, made from a blend of roughly 87% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Petit Manseng, and 3% Chardonnay. Where the estate's standard Sauvignon Blanc is fermented and aged purely in stainless steel to preserve fresh, citrus-driven fruit, this cuvée is instead matured in old (non-new) oak barrels, deliberately pursuing the quieter, more contemplative side of the variety rather than its typically vivid, dynamic citrus character. The wine is built with cellaring in mind, gaining aromatic complexity and softness with time in bottle. The 2020 vintage, released around 2023, is now sold out at most retailers.
This is Woody Farm's answer to Sauvignon Blanc's restless, citrus-driven reputation — a deliberately quieter, barrel-matured expression built to reward patience rather than immediate freshness.
New to wine?
A more contemplative, barrel-matured take on Sauvignon Blanc for drinkers who find the grape's usual sharp citrus edge too aggressive.
Food Pairings
The barrel-derived roundness pairs well with cream-based sauces, roasted or grilled poultry, and softer cheeses. Its quieter, more textured profile also suits delicate Japanese dishes such as steamed fish with dashi or simmered vegetables where a bright, sharp acidity would compete rather than complement.
When to drink it
A reflective glass for a quiet dinner at home, or a distinctive pour for wine enthusiasts seeking something beyond typical Sauvignon Blanc.
Terroir & Winemaking
Blend of approximately 87% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Petit Manseng, and 3% Chardonnay, all estate-grown at the foot of Mount Zao. Unlike the winery's stainless-steel Sauvignon Blanc, this cuvée is matured in old oak barrels (no new oak) rather than tank, in keeping with Woody Farm's minimal-intervention, no-chaptalization philosophy.
About the producer
Woody Farm & WineryDomaine winery at the foot of Zao, growing 9 vinifera varieties on its own land.上山市, 山形県 · Founded 2011Visit the producer page →More wines from Woody Farm & Winery
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is this different from Woody Farm's regular Sauvignon Blanc?
- The estate's standard Sauvignon Blanc is fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel for a fresh, citrus-forward style, while Sauvignon Éphémère is matured in old oak barrels to bring out a calmer, more textured character built for aging.
- What is the grape composition?
- It is a blend of approximately 87% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Petit Manseng, and 3% Chardonnay, all from the estate's own vineyards at the foot of Mount Zao.
- Is the 2020 vintage still available?
- The 2020 vintage, released around 2023, is reported as sold out at most retailers as of this writing.
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