koshu masterclass tasting

The Koshu grape is the most important grape variety indigenous to Japan. It was developed from grapes that travelled the Silk Road across Central Asia from the Caucasus to China and then to Japan, at a period estimated to be around a thousand years ago. The first record of winemaking was in 1874, when locals in Yamanashi Prefecture’s Kofu City started fermenting the juice. Subsequently, the first winery was established in the region a few years later in 1879.

The Koshu grape is grown primarily in Yamanashi Prefecture, whose climatic extremes of hot and cold, long days of summer sunlight, and well-drained volcanic soils are especially suited for cultivating grapes. Whilst rainstorms are common throughout the summer, Koshu is well suited to wet conditions.

We welcome Koshu of Japan (KOJ) to the Club on 12th February, an association established in 2009 by fifteen Japanese wine producers from Yamanashi Prefecture. The organisation was set up to improve the quality of Japanese Koshu grapes, and increase awareness of Koshu on the global wine stage. Through their efforts, the wines continue to gain recognition from the global market.

I do hope you are able to join us, where five winemakers will be present on the evening, each presenting two wines. Additionally, Lynne Sherriff MW will give Members a concise overview of the wine regions and grape varieties planted. Oysters will also be served on arrival – a perfect pairing with Koshu’s trademark low alcohol, delicate aromatics and pronounced minerality.

We will taste:

2016 Lumière Sparkling Koshu
2015 Aruga Branca ‘Brilhante’
2018 Soryu Koshu
2017 Soryu Koshu
2017 Haramo Koshu
2017 Cuvée Misawa Akeno Koshu
2016 Lumière Prestige Class Orange
2016 Aruga Branca ‘Pipa’