Japan has also won several medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards. This shows that the wines made in Japan have a fine quality.
Savor the emerging world of Japanese viticulture with our selection of the best Japanese wines. These bottles reflect the unique terroir and innovative winemaking techniques of the region, offering a diverse palette of flavors.
Discover the top wines that are gaining international acclaim and transforming Japan into a new wine destination.
Which is the best Japanese wine?
My team and I taste-tested a lot of Japanese wines and rated them based on their taste, alcohol content, and price. We found Suntory Red Wine to be the best out of all. Here's why:
Suntory Red Wine is an easy-to-drink, smooth, and soft textured wine. It’s made with top-quality grapes. The wine can be consumed at any time of the day with or without meals. This red wine doesn’t contain any antioxidants additives and is natural. It’s available on Amazon Japan for sale.
Best Japanese Wine: Summary
| Best Japanese Wine | Alcohol Content | Important Feature |
| Suntory Red Wine | 14% | Soft and smooth texture |
| Lumiere Sparkling Koshu 2016 | 11% | Slightly citrus in flavor |
| Premium Koshu 2016 | 12% | Perfect when paired with creamy foods |
| Kurambon Wine | 12% | Made using a slow fermentation technique |
| Beringer Red Wine | 14.5% | Can be used for other cooking purposes |
| Yoshiki Red Wine | 13.5% | Has an essence of vanilla, coffee and chocolate |
| Provetto Brut | 10.5% | Made with Spanish grapes |
| Santa Helena Alpaca Wine with Green Herbs | 13.5% | Caramel flavor |
- Related: Best Japanese Plum Wine
- Related: Best Japanese Sake
Best Japanese Wine You Have Try
Hombo Shuzo Château Mars Hosaka Hinoshiro Cabernet-Merlot Late Harvest 2018
As a wine enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Hombo Shuzo Château Mars Hosaka Hinoshiro Cabernet-Merlot Late Harvest 2018, a remarkable Japanese wine that blends tradition with innovation.
Crafted by Hombo Shuzo, a renowned winery known for their commitment to quality, this wine exceeded my expectations with its unique character and sophisticated flavor profile. Join me as I delve into the delightful nuances of this exquisite late harvest wine.
- Appearance
The wine's visual presentation was captivating from the moment I poured it into the glass. Its deep ruby hue hinted at the luscious flavors that awaited me. The liquid clung effortlessly to the sides of the glass, showcasing its viscosity and richness.
- Aroma
Upon bringing the glass to my nose, I was greeted by a symphony of aromas that instantly intrigued me. The nose was filled with ripe dark berries, such as blackcurrants and blackberries, intermingled with hints of plums and cherries. There was also a delicate note of oak, adding a subtle touch of vanilla and spice.
- Taste
The first sip of the Hombo Shuzo Château Mars Hosaka Hinoshiro Cabernet-Merlot Late Harvest 2018 was nothing short of sublime.
The wine displayed a harmonious balance between its natural sweetness and acidity. The ripe fruit flavors danced on my palate, with blackberries and cherries leading the way.
As the wine unfolded, I discovered elegant notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and a touch of earthiness, adding complexity and depth. The finish was long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of velvety smoothness.
- Texture
The texture of this late harvest wine was incredibly luxurious. It enveloped my mouth with a velvety smoothness, thanks to its well-integrated tannins. The wine possessed a medium-to-full body, providing a substantial presence without overwhelming the senses.
- Pairing
The Hombo Shuzo Château Mars Hosaka Hinoshiro Cabernet-Merlot Late Harvest 2018 would be an excellent companion for a variety of culinary experiences.
Its sweetness and complexity make it a superb choice for pairing with rich, dark chocolate desserts. The wine's acidity also allows it to complement savory dishes, such as grilled lamb or hearty stews. It is truly a versatile wine that will elevate any dining experience.
- Overall Impression
The Hombo Shuzo Château Mars Hosaka Hinoshiro Cabernet-Merlot Late Harvest 2018 is a testament to the remarkable winemaking prowess of Hombo Shuzo.
This Japanese wine defies expectations with its elegance, complexity, and remarkable balance. It showcases the artistry of blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, resulting in a wine that is both sophisticated and approachable.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a delectable meal, this late harvest wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur.
- Final Verdict
If you are seeking a unique and exceptional wine experience, I wholeheartedly recommend trying the Hombo Shuzo Château Mars Hosaka Hinoshiro Cabernet-Merlot Late Harvest 2018.
With its seductive aroma, exquisite flavors, and refined texture, it embodies the best of Japanese winemaking. Indulge in a bottle and savor the elegance of this remarkable creation. Cheers!
St. Cousair, Nagano Chardonnay 2019
The ST.COUSAIR Nagano Chardonnay 2019 is a delightful offering from one of Japan's premier wineries, ST.COUSAIR. Known for their meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to quality, this Chardonnay showcases the essence of Nagano's terroir with elegance and finesse.
Let's dive into the flavors, aromas, and overall experience of this captivating vintage.
- Aromas
Upon uncorking the bottle, a symphony of enticing aromas fills the air. The Nagano Chardonnay 2019 greets your senses with a beautiful bouquet of ripe tropical fruits, including pineapple and mango, intertwined with delicate floral notes.
Subtle hints of vanilla and toasted oak add depth and complexity to the aromatic profile, foreshadowing the sophistication to come.
- Taste
The first sip reveals a well-balanced Chardonnay that effortlessly marries fruitiness and structure. The Nagano Chardonnay 2019 boasts a vibrant flavor profile dominated by luscious pineapple, ripe pear, and juicy golden apple.
These fruity notes are harmoniously complemented by a subtle touch of butterscotch and toasted almonds, imparted by the skillful oak aging. The wine's acidity is refreshing, offering a clean and crisp finish that lingers on the palate, leaving a delightful impression.
- Texture
In terms of texture, this Chardonnay strikes a perfect balance. The wine is smooth and silky on the tongue, with a medium body that carries the flavors gracefully.
Its well-integrated oak influence provides a slight creaminess without overpowering the delicate fruit characteristics, resulting in a velvety mouthfeel that is both luxurious and inviting.
- Pairing
The ST.COUSAIR Nagano Chardonnay 2019 is a versatile companion for various culinary adventures. Its vibrant fruitiness and balanced acidity make it an excellent pairing with seafood dishes such as grilled prawns, seared scallops, or buttery lobster.
It also harmonizes beautifully with creamy pasta dishes and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, as well as roasted chicken or pork with rich sauces.
- Overall Experience
ST.COUSAIR has crafted a true gem with their Nagano Chardonnay 2019. From its captivating aromas to its well-balanced flavors and velvety texture, this wine offers a memorable experience from start to finish.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a gourmet meal, it demonstrates the winery's commitment to excellence and the unique expression of Nagano's terroir. It's a testament to the skill and passion that go into each bottle.
- Final Verdict
If you appreciate a Chardonnay that showcases elegance, balance, and the beautiful nuances of Nagano's vineyards, the ST.COUSAIR Nagano Chardonnay 2019 is a must-try.
Its vibrant fruit flavors, harmonious oak integration, and velvety texture create a captivating symphony of tastes that will leave wine enthusiasts craving another sip. Cheers to ST.COUSAIR for this exceptional vintage!
Suntory Red Wine
Enjoy the pleasure of drinking this red wine from the brand Suntory. This is a pack of six tetra packs that contain wine made without any additional artificial additives.
It is easy to drink and is absolutely tasty as the grapes, with which the wine is made, are cultivated in restrictive weather to bring out the flavor completely. This is the best cheap wine in Japan.
The wine is quite strong but can be taken with regular meals. Without antioxidants also, this wine has a perfect aroma and the taste of grape stays intact. It's one of the good Japanese wine for beginners.
At any time of the day, I can enjoy a glass of Suntory and give myself some mental peace and time to relax with this best Japanese wine. I particularly love the texture of this wine which isn't too dry and has a good amount of sweetness and low acidity. I also don't have to burn my pocket to buy this wine.
Key Features:
- Red wine without antioxidant additives
- Made with good quality grapes
- Can be consumed at any time of the day with or without meals
- Soft and smooth texture and easy to drink
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9.5/10
- Taste: 9/10
- Affordability: 9.5/10
Lumiére Sparkling Koshu 2016
Made using Koshu grapes, this dry sparkling wine is known for its refreshing sour taste. I love the fact that this does not have a very sweet taste.
This is top-choice when it comes to raising a toast. It is highly carbonated and effervescent. The acidity level of this wine is also quite high. This Japanese wine’s price is quite reasonable so you can enjoy it without a second thought.
Also, I love the slight citrus flavor that this Koshu sparkling wine has. I have to agree that this is the best Japanese wine for its flavor.
Key Features:
- Made using Koshu grapes
- Has a refreshing sour taste
- Not a lingering sweetness
- Perfect for raising a toast
- Highly carbonated
- Has a slight citrus flavor
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9.5/10
- Taste: 8.5/10
- Affordability: 8.5/10
Premium Koshu 2016
If you love Japanese white wine and are passionate about it, then you must give this Premium Koshu a try. This wine has a refreshing taste that is very light. I love the slight hint of mint and apples in this wine.
Aromas of 🍋 and 🍏 with a pleasant astringency. The wine makers of this delicious Japanese 🇯🇵 bottle of Koshu have ensured their recommended serving temperature is clearly noted on the back for your optimum enjoyment. How do you serve yours? #japanesewine pic.twitter.com/uszVTUCnXA
— KelvinWine.com (@KelvinWineTherm) April 12, 2019
It is quite easy to drink this wine, which makes it the perfect partner for creamy foods. You can also enjoy this wine as a chilled drink on a hot summer night. It’s the best Japanese wine for its refreshing taste. Japanese wines like Koshu are perfect for dine out party with friends.
Key Features:
- White wine with a refreshing taste
- Light and crisp
- Hints of mint and apples
- Easy to drink
- Perfect when paired with creamy foods
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 10/10
- Taste: 9.5/10
- Affordability: 8.5/10
Kurambon Wine
This is the perfect wine for first-time drinkers. It has a rich taste, thanks to the carefully selected Koshu grapes. The grapes are slowly fermented at a low temperature. This wine has a fruity fragrance with a slight hint of citrus.
It leaves quite a fresh taste in your mouth. I also love the aftertaste it leaves behind. It’s the best Japanese wine for beginners.
Key Features:
- Perfect wine for first-time wine drinkers
- Made using home-grown Koshu grapes
- Made using a slow fermentation technique
- Has a fruity fragrance with a slight hint of citrus
- Fresh taste
Beringer Red Wine
If you are wondering which red wine you should buy then go for this one. This red wine has bagged itself the 'Wine of the year' award because of its rich taste and feel.
The process of making wine matters the most to have that delicious taste. It’s the best Japanese wine for cooking purposes.
The brewing technique keeps the taste unique and long lasting. This wine is made with grapes cultivated in the environment of California which gives both sweet and sour taste. You can even use this red wine as umami to marinate the meat.
The taste spreads evenly in the mouth and feels both thick and mellow. Grab this bottle of wine and enjoy the rich and punchy taste. This is not so expensive japanese wine that can be enjoyed with friends and family.
Key Features:
- Famous red wine from a well know winery
- Made with traditional wine production ways
- Made in a way to keep the fruity taste unique
- Can be used for other cooking purposes
Yoshiki Red Wine
This best Japanese wine is an interesting option if you are planning to invest in red wine. You will definitely have a heavenly taste in your mouth when you try this extremely delicious wine. In the beginning, it is a bit acidic but later it feels smooth and soft.
With a good aroma and mellow taste, it is easy to drink and can be served with other heavenly dishes like lamb and beef. This is also the most popular red wine in Japan.
Rich in flavor, this red wine also has chocolate, coffee, and vanilla essence to bring out the subtleness of the wine.
The grapes used in this wine are of high quality that were cultivated in California. Also, it is alcoholic with a 13.5% of alcohol content. It’s definitely the best Japanese wine that’s acidic as well as soft.
Key Features:
- Made with California grapes to get the fresh taste
- Slightly alcoholic in nature
- Easy to drink with a both acidic and soft flavor
- Also has an essence of vanilla, coffee and chocolate
Provetto Brut
Not a fan of red wine? Don't worry, as there is an option in white wine that will blow your mind completely because it’s the best Japanese wine for the fizz.
Provetto Brut is a white wine made with handpicked excellent quality Spanish grapes that are completely ripe. This is a sparkling wine made with aromatic grapes that give you both citric and sweet taste which is not all overpowering.
It blends in your mouth and feels absolutely delicious. The fizz and white bubbles make its appearance amazing and it can be drunk daily or on special occasions to celebrate.
To make it a perfect wine choice, a balanced amount of acidity and carbon dioxide are added, which also keeps the texture pleasant. Relish this best Japanese wine with your friends.
Key Features:
- Made with Spanish grapes
- Sparkling white wine with citrus and acidic taste
- Produced in high technology environment to keep the grape flavor intact
- Fizzy and has clear white bubbles
Santa Helena Alpaca Wine with Green Herbs
Fruit wine with herbs and spices? Ever tasted that? If not, then get this caramel flavored best Japanese wine to fulfill your mouth's taste. To make this wine taste more exotic and delicious, herbs and spices of good quality have been used.
Environment and cold temperature play a very important role in the ripening process of the fruits as the difference in temperature make the fruit sweeter and condensed.
This eventually makes the wine flavor extremely fruitful. Keep this as a daily wine and enjoy it with different types of meals. Do try out this best Japanese wine.
Key Features:
- Grape wine infused with herbs and spices
- Preserved at cold temperature to keep the flavor intact
- Suitable for daily drinking
- Caramel flavor that satisfies your mouth
Why Is Japanese Wine Popular?
Japanese wine's popularity is on the rise! It offers unique flavors due to grapes like Koshu and innovative techniques. Wineries are even creating award-winning wines that rival international styles, while also catering to the Japanese palate. This exciting blend of tradition and progress is drawing in both local and global attention.
Is Japanese wine any good?
Although Japan is known for its sake, which is something that is enjoyed by every Japanese in the evening, you will also be surprised to hear that the Japanese wine industry is expanding.
The domestic wines of Japan are truly a treat for your taste buds. These wines are so good, it has brought the wine industry of Japan into the limelight.
Thanks to these wines, Japan has won various medals at the Decanter World Wine Award. The wines have the finest quality and you are sure to enjoy your meals with them.
What is Japanese plum wine?
Japanese plum wine is known as Umeshu in Japan. It is a liquor that is very rich in flavor. It is made by steeping fresh Japanese plum in shochu (white liquor) and sugar. It has a distinct flavor that hints at both sweetness and sourness. It also has a very tantalizing fruity aroma. Using Japanese plum wine, you can make various kinds of drinks.
Why is Umeshu (Japanese plum wine) good for you?
Japanese plum wine or Umeshu is said to be very good for you. It is known to relieve you from exhaustion.
Apart from taking care of your energy levels, it also helps with constipation. It also helps to prevent diarrhea and stimulate appetite. Umeshu contains a lot of minerals and calcium that are very good for your health.
With the Japanese plum wine, you can get tipsy but without compromising on your health.
Do Japanese people drink wine?
According to a recent study, 29% of people in Japan drink wine regularly. So, it's not exactly like wine drinking is uncommon in the country. In fact, many Japanese people enjoy trying different types of wines from all over the world.
What is a wine called in Japanese?
Wine is called kajitsu noaji (果実の酒) in Japanese. This translates to "fruit wine". Some common types of fruit wine include plum wine (ume-shu, 梅酒), grape wine (budō-shu, ぶどう酒), and apple wine (ringo no moe, りんごの酛). Fruit wines are typically sweeter than regular wines because of the natural sugars in the fruit.
Drink Away!
These were some of the best Japanese wines that you can try out. These best Japanese wines are going to make sure you have a wonderful time in the evening.
While many of us associate the liquor scene in Japan with sake, we often forget about the existence of these wonderful and delicious domestic wines.
So, try out these best Japanese wines. I am sure you will be asking for more with every sip of the best Japanese wine. Happy drinking!
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