About this wine
Su Merlot is a red wine crafted by Yellow Magic Winery from 100% Merlot grapes sourced from the Okitama district of Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. Made in the natural winemaking tradition — no sulfite additions, no filtration, no fining — the wine is fermented with native yeasts using a low-temperature carbonic maceration technique over approximately 60 days. Limited to around 700 bottles per vintage, it delivers a juicy, fruit-forward character that diverges sharply from the heavy, oaked style of international Merlot. Bright cranberry and strawberry aromas are complemented by a subtle herbal, pyrazine note, balanced by fresh acidity and soft tannins. The wine qualifies under the GI Yamagata designation.
If you think Merlot means heavy and oaky, this wine will change your mind. It is light, juicy, and refreshing — closer in style to a Loire Cabernet Franc than a Bordeaux Merlot.
Sommelier's Note
"A benchmark for Japanese natural Merlot. The low-temperature carbonic maceration extracts primary fruit without harsh tannins, resulting in a wine that is honest, terroir-driven, and surprisingly food-versatile. A must-have for anyone exploring Japanese natural wine."
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled chicken, mushroom-based dishes, charcuterie, and light pasta. Its bright acidity and soft tannins also complement umami-rich preparations.
When to drink it
Perfect for casual dinners, izakaya-style gatherings, picnics, and any occasion where you want a lively, unpretentious red wine that pairs with Japanese food.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Merlot
- Style
- Red
- Alcohol
- 11%
- Price Range
- ¥4,000–6,000
Terroir & Winemaking
100% Merlot from Okitama district, Yamagata Prefecture. Fermented with indigenous yeasts using carbonic maceration at low temperature for approximately 60 days. No sulfite additions. Bottled unfiltered and unfined. Approximately 11% ABV. ~700 bottles produced per vintage. GI Yamagata compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Su Merlot taste like?
- It tastes like fresh cranberry and strawberry with a subtle herbal note, bright acidity, and soft tannins. Think juicy and refreshing rather than heavy and oaked.
- Is it really made from Merlot?
- Yes, 100% Merlot from Yamagata Prefecture. The lightness comes from carbonic maceration, not the grape variety — it is a deliberate stylistic choice by the winemaker.
- Does it contain sulfites?
- No sulfite additions. It is made with indigenous yeasts, no fining, and no filtration — a fully natural wine.
- What food pairs well with it?
- Grilled chicken with tare sauce, mushroom dishes, soy-braised meats, and light pasta all work beautifully. Its versatility makes it great with Japanese cuisine.
- When should I drink it?
- Best enjoyed young (1–3 years from vintage) to appreciate its fresh fruit character. Serve slightly chilled at around 14–16°C.
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