Winemaking
What actually happens before Japanese wine ends up in your glass?
A lot more than you’d think.
From vineyard decisions to cellar choices, this section breaks down how Japanese winemakers work with a tricky climate and somehow turn it into something pretty exciting in the glass.
Start here
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What does volcanic rock do to wine?
Volcanic rock gives wine freshness, structure, and a mineral character. Wines grown on volcanic soils often taste dry, precise, and mouth-watering, with subtle smoky or salty notes. Because these soils drain well, vines grow deep roots, producing focused wines that are highly food-friendly and age well.
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What Is the Right Wine Serving Temperature (and Why It Matters More Than You Think)?
Serving wine at the right temperature can make or break your tasting experience. Too cold, and the wine’s aromas are muted; too warm, and all you taste is the alcohol. White wines — whether dry or sweet — should be served fresh, ideally between 7°C and 13°C depending on their body, while reds show their best between 15°C and 18°C.…
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How does soil affect the taste of wine: A Guide for Curious Drinkers
Soil affects the taste of wine by regulating water drainage, heat retention, and nutrient uptake, which directly influence a grape’s acidity, sugar, and tannin levels. While vines don't "taste" the dirt, soil composition—from water-retentive clay and heat-trapping gravel to mineral-rich volcanic rock—determines the wine's final structure, aromatic intensity, and perceived minerality. Quick Guide to Soil & Flavor: Clay: Produces bold,…
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Train Your Nose Like a Pro with Le Nez du Vin Masterkit
3 minutes read I’ve always found the smelling part of wine tasting the most difficult. In our modern lives, we’re not used to really using our nose anymore! Think about it: when you visit your grandparents in the countryside, fruit smells alive. Back home in the city? Not so much. Industrialization changed not only how fruit tastes — but also…
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How to taste a wine like a pro (Simple Checklist + Pro Tips)
To taste wine like a pro, start by setting up a quiet, well-lit space with no distracting smells and take notes as you go. Check clarity, color, and intensity by tilting the glass over white paper. Smell first without swirling (the “first nose”), then swirl for deeper aromas (the “second nose”). Try to identify fruity, floral, spicy, or woody notes.…
