Is Japanese wine not tasty? Explaining the differences between Japanese wine and domestic wine
There are probably still many people who think that Japanese wine is "not tasty" or "just cheap."
In fact, Japanese wine is gaining more and more attention every year, and its deliciousness is becoming recognized around the world.
Even though Japanese wine is gaining attention around the world, isn't it strange that Japanese people still think that Japanese wine is not tasty?
This time, we will summarize the appeal of "Japanese wine" and the differences between it and "domestic wine."
Did you know? The difference between "Japanese wine" and "domestic wine"
I guess only wine specialists would be able to tell the difference between "Japanese wine" and "domestic wine."
Actually there is a big difference!
"Japanese wine" is made from 100% domestically grown grapes.
This wine is produced in Japan.
On the other hand, "domestic wine" is wine produced in Japan.
We use grapes and concentrated fruit juice imported from overseas .
"Japanese wine" is a new term that was officially adopted in 2018.
In the past, it was said that "it is difficult to make good wine in Japan's climate," and there seemed to be no clear rules.
However, thanks to the efforts of wineries and manufacturers, high-quality wines that win awards at international competitions have begun to be produced in Japan, and labeling rules for "Japanese wine" and "domestic wine" have been established.
In the future, wines called "Japanese wine" or "Japanese wine" will continue to become increasingly recognized around the world.
Is Japanese wine made all over the country?
Of the 47 prefectures, most currently produce wine.
Wines are produced that take advantage of the diversity of varieties and climates, and there are also world-renowned wineries.
The four major wine producing regions in Japan are Yamanashi, Hokkaido, Nagano, and Yamagata.
Among them, Yamanashi Prefecture is considered the holy land of Japanese wine.
Learn about the characteristics of Japanese wine
Japanese wine has a fruity aroma and a mild flavor.
It is made to suit the delicate palates of Japanese people.
There are two main grape varieties used in Japanese wine.
"Koshu" is a Japanese indigenous variety grown in the Katsunuma area of Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture.
It has a fruity taste with a moderate acidity and is a variety used for making white wine.
And then there's Muscat Bailey A, which originates in Niigata Prefecture.
A Japanese indigenous variety for red wine.
It has a mellow flavor and is an easy-drinking red wine.
The large fruits and sweet taste make this a delicious and popular edible grape!
Japanese wine goes perfectly with Japanese food!
Just as French wine goes well with French cuisine, it is generally said that wine pairs perfectly with the cuisine of the country in which it was made.
Of course, Japanese wine pairs well with delicately prepared Japanese cuisine.
The mellow flavors of Japanese wines are perfect for Japanese cuisine that uses dashi, simmered dishes that use soy sauce, and other dishes that allow you to enjoy the flavors of the ingredients!
Previously, I wrote an interview article for Lucia's.
[ 2019 Miss Wine Japan Grand Prix], Talent Yui Chiyoda Yui also recommended "Koshu", a Japanese wine that goes well with Japanese food!
[Miss Wine] Yui Chiyoda's recommended wines and activities
Japanese cuisine is currently booming overseas, and in Japanese restaurants in Paris, London, and New York, it seems that along with sake and shochu, Japanese wine is also becoming recognized as a good pairing with Japanese food.
It's time for us Japanese people to start drinking Japanese wine, which goes perfectly with Japanese food!
How to choose Japanese wine
Japanese wines have the name of the place + wine displayed on the label, such as "Koshu wine. "
First, check the label to see if it is Japanese wine!
The taste of Japanese wine varies greatly depending on the grape variety and place of origin.
We recommend choosing a wine from your favorite region or trying some while traveling to find your favorite.
Nowadays, there are an increasing number of delicious Japanese wines that are affordable and have good value for money.
If you would like to try some Japanese wine easily , check out the Japanese wines selected by Lucia's wine sommelier, Yuta Okada .
[ Delicious Japanese wines in the 1000 yen range] 5 sommelier recommendations
Start drinking Japanese wine today
In the future, Japanese wine will continue to attract more attention, and Japanese wines that are uniquely Japanese will likely appear.
As Japanese people, we would also like to find our favorite Japanese wine before the rest of the world discovers it !
Be sure to check out Japanese wine starting today.
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It makes Japanese wine even smoother, more delicious and easier to drink.
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