About this wine
A cool-climate Pinot Noir from 19–26 year-old vines on the Tappu slopes of Mikasa, Hokkaido. Pale ruby in color with aromas of fresh red fruits, strawberry, and a refreshing forest-floor note. Soft fruit, bright acidity, and an elegant mineral finish evoking the quiet landscapes of Sorachi.
An ideal entry point for those new to Japanese Pinot Noir. The light body and fresh fruit make it easy to enjoy, while the mineral complexity rewards contemplative sipping.
Sommelier's Note
"Tappu's cool microclimate and mineral-rich soils yield a Pinot Noir of genuine elegance. The wine has a Burgundian soul translated into a distinctly Japanese idiom—delicate, precise, and deeply reflective of its place."
Food Pairings
Duck breast, salmon, tuna tataki, mushroom risotto, or light lamb dishes. The delicate structure shines alongside umami-rich Japanese cuisine.
When to drink it
Weeknight dinners with Japanese food, sushi restaurants, or as a versatile red for summer gatherings.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Pinot Noir
- Style
- Red
- Alcohol
- 11.5%
- Price Range
- Around ¥3,500–¥4,000 per bottle (750ml).
Terroir & Winemaking
Vine age: 19–26 years. ABV: 11.5%. Dry red. Whole-bunch fermentation with wild yeast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is this labelled 'Blue' (Ao)?
- Yamazaki Winery produces Pinot Noir with different label colors (blue, green) to distinguish between vinification styles or vineyard selections. The blue label is the approachable, fresh expression.
- How does Hokkaido Pinot Noir compare to Burgundy?
- Hokkaido's cool climate produces Pinot Noir with similar high acidity and elegant structure to Burgundy, but with a distinctive mineral freshness and lighter body. It is closer in style to village-level Bourgogne than to premier or grand cru.
- Is this wine suitable for aging?
- It can be enjoyed young for its fresh fruit character, but its acid and mineral backbone give it potential to develop complexity over 3–5 years.
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