Sake and Japanese wine are two traditional Japanese beverages that are fundamentally different: Sake is brewed from rice, while Japanese wine - like the elegant Koshu - is made from grapes. Sake impresses with its smooth flavor, mild umami, and cultural depth, but is low in acidity and is usually consumed young. Japanese wine scores points with its fresh acidity, diverse aromas, and growing international recognition. White wines made from the Koshu grape and red wines from wineries such as Lumière, Marufuji, and Takahata in particular demonstrate the potential of this emerging wine region. Those who love fine, terroir-influenced wines will find an exciting addition to their classic wine portfolio in Japan - subtle, stylish, and high-quality.

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women shaping Japanese wine today. From early pioneers to today’s female winemakers in Yamanashi and Hokkaidō, this article highlights their influence on one of the most exciting wine cultures of our time.

Summer is just around the corner, and with it the perfect opportunity to enjoy light, fruity wines. In this article, we present our favorite summer wines from our current selection – ideal for balmy evenings, barbecues, and relaxing hours on the patio.

Behind every wine lies a story - and a winemaker who works with passion and dedication. In this series, we introduce our favorite winemakers, share their philosophy, and share what makes their wines so special. A look behind the scenes at Weinkontor Sommer.