About this wine
Yoka Kerner is a flagship white wine from Yoka Winery, located in the Yoichi region of Hokkaido. Crafted from estate-grown Kerner grapes, this wine showcases the unique cool-climate terroir of the region. It features vibrant aromatics of mint, lemon curd, apricot, and white florals, complemented by a dash of fine white spices. On the palate, it offers excellent acidity, mid-palate concentration, and a distinct umami character, leading to a long, pleasant, and slightly bittersweet finish. It is a sophisticated expression of Hokkaido viticulture.
A perfect introduction to high-quality Japanese white wine; it is aromatic, refreshing, and incredibly food-friendly.
Sommelier's Note
"This is a masterpiece of Hokkaido viticulture. Its precision, balance, and unique umami profile make it a must-try for any serious wine lover."
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, sushi, sashimi, tempura, and lightly seasoned white meat dishes. Its acidity and umami also make it a great match for Japanese-style vegetable dishes.
When to drink it
Ideal for celebratory dinners, sushi nights, or as a sophisticated gift for wine enthusiasts.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Kerner
- Style
- White
- Price Range
- ¥5,000-7,000
Terroir & Winemaking
The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness. The winemaking process involves whole-cluster pressing, followed by a slow, cool fermentation with native yeasts. The wine is aged in oak barrels for a short period (typically 3-5 months) to enhance complexity while preserving the varietal's fresh fruit character.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does it taste like?
- It features vibrant citrus and stone fruit aromas with a refreshing acidity and a savory, umami-rich finish.
- What food does it pair with?
- It is exceptionally versatile, pairing perfectly with sushi, sashimi, tempura, and light Japanese cuisine.
- When is the best time to drink it?
- It is delicious upon release but will continue to evolve and gain complexity over the next 3-5 years.
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Talk to the SommelierMore wines from this producer
余香 ブラッシュ
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Yoka Blush is a unique rosé wine from Yoka Winery in Yoichi, Hokkaido. Crafted primarily from Pinot Noir (including a small portion of botrytized grapes), it is creatively blended with Kerner and Gewürztraminer. The wine features a medium rose hue and offers an elegant bouquet of small red berries, apricots, and floral nuances. On the palate, it displays a superb balance between fruitiness, subtle oak influence, and refreshing acidity, with a soft, lingering finish. It is a sophisticated expression of the Yoichi terroir, showcasing the winery's commitment to quality and innovation.
余珀 ツヴァイゲルト
Yohaku Zweigelt
RedRoséZweigelt
Yoka Winery's 'Yohaku' series features grapes sourced from local Yoichi producers, embodying the winery's commitment to regional connection. This Zweigelt is crafted using a 'Blanc de Noirs' technique, where the grapes are pressed whole-cluster without maceration to avoid harsh tannins. The resulting wine displays a beautiful golden hue with copper tints. On the palate, it offers a sophisticated balance of saline minerality, bright acidity, and subtle umami reminiscent of seaweed, complemented by notes of cherry cola, apricot, and white spices. It is a complex, elegant expression that defies typical red wine expectations.
ヨカ ルージュ
Yoka Rouge
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Yoka Rouge is a signature red wine produced by Yoka Winery, located in the Nobori district of Yoichi, Hokkaido. Crafted primarily from estate-grown Pinot Noir, this wine reflects the unique terroir of the region, characterized by significant diurnal temperature variations and well-drained, mineral-rich soil. The winemaking process emphasizes a sincere approach to the land, resulting in a wine that captures the delicate, elegant essence of Hokkaido Pinot Noir. With its refined structure and nuanced aromatic profile, it embodies the winery's philosophy of creating wines that leave a lasting, pleasant impression.
ヨカ ブラン
Yoka Blanc
WhiteChardonnay · Müller-Thurgau
Yoka Blanc is a refined white wine produced by Yoka Winery in Yoichi, Hokkaido. Crafted with a blend of Chardonnay and Müller-Thurgau, this wine captures the cool-climate essence of the region. It features a crisp, refreshing acidity balanced by delicate fruit notes and a subtle mineral backbone, reflecting the unique terroir of the Yoichi vineyards. The winemaking process emphasizes purity and elegance, resulting in a clean, expressive profile that showcases the potential of Hokkaido viticulture.