Nov. 5
I went to Yamagata and visited Asahimachi Wine at the first time.
Mr. Suzuki, who is the chief wine maker, and Mr. Ikeda, who is the sales manager, received us.
They have been very busy now because it was the peak season of the grape picking.
A lot of grapes were arriving while I was there.
Asahimachi wine was established in 1944 as a kind of grape grower’s corporative winery.
They produced all their wine from only the local grapes.
In this year, they presses 300 t grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zweigelt, Muscat Bailey-A, Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Riesling Forte, Delaware, etc.
The total number of the wine making staff is only three parsons.
Three people are in charge of 300 t grape!
Surprise!
We were guided to the cellar.
It is not so big but very well-organized.
I tried to taste 2014 vintages from the barrel.
They were so nice, so delicious！
Asahimachi Wine is well-known by its fine rose wine.
But they have been producing very fine red and white recently.
I thought I had to pay attention to the winemaking of the winery.
Then I was guided to the estate vineyard, planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Zweigelt and Chardonnay.
Thank you very much for Suzuki-san and Ikeda-san.
I really expect your young power and passion for good wine making.
I am truly looking forward to tasting your wines from now to the future.
I stayed in Yamagata City tonight.
I had a very good local dinner with my friends in Yamagata.
I brought two top cuvee bottles of Asahimachi wine myself there.
I was sure that they had already become one of the top class Japan wines.
We enjoyed a lot fine wine, delicious dishes and good talking.
I was sure I had a very good experience in Yamagata today.
Thank you very much!
