2021 Grace Wine Koshu Toriibira Vineyard, Japan

Palish colour; smoky struck-flint overtones on the nose, albeit very subtle, the palate juicy and grapy/soft, with a clean and properly dry finish and a trace of lemon rind. The subtlest touch of lemon-peel bitterness gives a refreshing finish. Delicious fruit, beautifully harmonious and finishes very long.

95 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

Grace Wine Koshu Toriibira Vineyard from Japan is a refined single-vineyard Koshu crafted in the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture. Sourced from the Toriibira Vineyard, known for its volcanic soils and elevation, this wine reflects the unique terroir of Yamanashi, one of Japan’s premier wine-growing regions. Grace Wine, a pioneer in Japanese winemaking, has focused on highlighting the purity and elegance of Koshu, Japan’s native grape, and the Toriibira Vineyard brings forth Koshu with exceptional minerality and structure.

Winemaker Ayana Misawa employs minimal intervention techniques to ensure that the wine retains the natural characteristics of the Koshu grape and Toriibira’s terroir. Hand-harvested grapes undergo fermentation in stainless steel to preserve the wine’s fresh, crisp profile and avoid any oak influence.

Delicate aromas of citrus blossom, white peach, and a hint of saline. On the palate, it is light and refreshing, with flavors of lemon, green apple, and a touch of minerality, balanced by a lively acidity that leads to a clean, elegant finish. This single-vineyard Koshu showcases the finesse and complexity of Japanese winemaking, making it a perfect pairing for sushi, sashimi, and other delicate dishes.