2022 Grace Wine Koshu Hishiyama Vineyard, Japan

The Hishiyama vineyard is situated at the highest point of Katsunuma town, 550 metres above sea level, and boasts granite soils. Once again, tank-fermented and aged, this Koshu offers a crisper, more floral profile with notes of citrus blossom, Nashi pears, white fruits and hints of lemon sorbet on the nose. A zesty streak of acidity forms the foundation; a saline and mineral character throughout the citrusy palate, accentuated with umami depth and refined texture.

92 points Slyvia Wu decanter.com

Situated at the highest altitude in Katsunuma Town (500m-600m), the Hishiyama area is characterised by complex and diverse soils, including large granite formations scattered throughout the area. This is a region particularly cherished by Kazuo Misawa, the third-generation owner. The wine's lively acidity and smoky minerality faithfully express the characteristics of the region. We put a rain shade on every bunch of grapes. After harvesting by hand, grapes from specific vineyards are selected, followed by fermentation and maturation in stainless steel tanks.

Grace Wine Koshu Hishiyama Vineyard from Japan is a distinctive expression of the Koshu grape, crafted from one of Yamanashi Prefecture’s most esteemed vineyard sites. The Hishiyama Vineyard, known for its altitude and mineral-rich soils, is an ideal terroir for Koshu, producing grapes with bright acidity, finesse, and depth of flavor. Grace Wine, a pioneering winery in Japanese viticulture, focuses on showcasing the unique characteristics of Koshu in this single-vineyard wine, capturing the essence of Japan’s winemaking heritage.

Winemaker Ayana Misawa uses minimal intervention techniques to highlight the natural qualities of Hishiyama’s Koshu. Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel, preserving the purity and freshness of the fruit without any oak influence, allowing the terroir to shine.

Clear and faultless. Brilliant pale yellow with green tinge. Aromas of citrus fruits such as lemon and lime, notes of white flower such as acacia, spicy aromas from coriander and cumin, and mineral notes reminiscent of minerals. Smooth and dry on the palate. Citrus fruit flavours such as lemon and lime, mineral notes hinting mineral and a firm, elegant acidity form the backbone of the wine.