Discover Unique Japanese Wine Grape Varieties

7 minutes read

Did you know Japan isn’t just about sake?

When you think of Japan, wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Japanese wines are worth knowing about if you enjoy discovering new and unique flavors.

Japan is part of the ‘New World,’ but its grape varieties uniquely adapt to challenging climates. These grapes are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.

Let’s explore what makes Japanese wine grape varieties special and how they compare to wines you already enjoy.

Japan might not be the first place you think of for wine, but it’s got some amazing grapes you should know about. Native varieties like Koshu, Muscat Bailey A, and Delaware are perfect for Japan’s tricky climate and pair really well with Japanese food. While Japanese winemakers are also experimenting with European grapes like Merlot, Syrah, and Pinot Noir, they’re creating something truly unique. Japan’s wine scene is all about mixing tradition with fresh ideas, making it an exciting place for any wine lover to explore.

The Unique World of Japanese Wine Grape Varieties

Japan’s main wine grape varieties are Koshu, Muscat Bailey A, and Delaware. These resilient Japanese wine grape varieties thrive in Japan’s rainy climate, particularly in regions like Yamanashi.

Together, they account for approximately 40% of its total wine grape production.

Koshu is Japan’s signature white grape.

Its wines are fresh and crisp, with delicate citrus and floral notes and a subtle minerality that reflects Japan’s unique terroir.

Light and refreshing, Koshu pairs beautifully with sushi and seafood.

While it can be compared to Riesling for its crisp, mineral edge or Pinot Grigio for its versatility, Koshu is typically less aromatic than Riesling and not as dry as some Pinot Grigio styles.

Muscat Bailey A, a Japanese hybrid, produces wines with vibrant flavors of strawberry and cherry, complemented by a hint of spiciness.

These medium-bodied wines have smooth tannins, making them versatile for pairing with a variety of dishes.

Similar to Gamay from Beaujolais in its light body and fresh fruit flavors, Muscat Bailey A stands out for its more aromatic and floral sweetness.

Delaware, a natural cross between Vitis vinifera and Vitis labrusca, is another key variety in Japan.

Known for its high acidity and fruity character, Delaware wines often feature flavors of grape and red fruits with subtle floral notes.

It is commonly used for sparkling wines, resembling styles like Blanc de Noir Champagne or Lambrusco.

Still wines made from Delaware can be compared to Beaujolais Nouveau, thanks to their bright, fresh fruitiness.

The Challenge of Climate: Rain, Typhoons, and Innovation

Japan’s climate poses significant challenges for grape cultivation.

Japan’s rainy season, Bai-wun, lasts from June to mid-July, followed by autumn rain during grape ripening.

Adding to this, typhoons with heavy rain and strong winds can damage vines and make grapes more susceptible to pests and diseases.

To overcome these obstacles, Japanese vignerons have developed innovative techniques and shown remarkable resilience, ensuring the production of high-quality wines even under difficult conditions.

Challenges and Successes with European Grapes in Japan

Red wine grapes in Japan

European red grape varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zweigelt have made their way into Japanese vineyards, with some successes and plenty of challenges.

Like many New World wine countries, Japan has aspired to make wines reminiscent of Europe, so planting European varieties seemed like the natural step. But it hasn’t been smooth sailing—Japan’s rainy summers aren’t exactly a grape’s best friend.

Merlot, however, has proven to be a good sport. It adapts reasonably well to Japan’s climate and is widely grown.

On the other hand, Cabernet Sauvignon has been much fussier—it simply doesn’t like all that water!

Yet, Japanese winemakers are nothing if not persistent. They continue to experiment with techniques to coax these sophisticated grapes into thriving.

Syrah is showing exciting potential. It’s still early days, but it could become the next star of Japanese red wines. As someone who loves Syrah, I’m personally excited to see how this variety develops here.

Then there’s Pinot Noir, the diva of grapes.

While it’s definitely a challenge, Pinot Noir has started acclimating to the cooler climate of Hokkaido. I’ve already tasted a few bottles that were surprisingly good!

In Nagano, high-altitude vineyards are also giving it a shot, and while the results are still evolving, there’s a lot of enthusiasm about what’s to come.

As Mr. Basso, a world sommelier champion, once pointed out, Pinot Noir’s delicate and refined character feels like a natural fit for Japan’s culture.

The effort doesn’t stop there—winemakers across the country are sharing tips and techniques, hoping to one day produce Pinot Noir that can compete on the world stage. It’s a real team effort.

Let’s not forget Zweigelt, the Austrian red that’s found a happy home in Japan.

Known for its vibrant cherry and raspberry flavors with a hint of spice, Zweigelt thrives in Japan’s cooler regions, like Hokkaido.

Its adaptability and medium-bodied profile make it a fantastic choice for pairing with both Japanese cuisine and heartier Western dishes.

White Wine Grapes in Japan

When it comes to white wines, Chardonnay is leading the charge. Japan has been producing some excellent Chardonnay wines, and they’re even starting to win international awards. But that’s not the end of the story.

Riesling is another grape making its mark, although it’s a bit tricky to grow in Japan. Regions like Akita, however, are proving that exceptional Riesling wines can be crafted here.

Sauvignon Blanc is steadily improving and gaining more attention from winemakers, and in Hokkaido, cold-loving varieties like Kerner and Müller Thurgau are thriving. These grapes are producing wines that are fresh, aromatic, and absolutely worth trying.

Japan is clearly figuring out which grapes work best in its unique climates, creating wines that are not just delicious but also distinctly Japanese.

While European varieties make up less than 20% of Japan’s total wine grape production, their potential continues to grow as vignerons refine their techniques and embrace the challenges of Japan’s diverse terroir.

American Varieties: A Versatile Role

American grape varieties, primarily Vitis labrusca types like Concord, Niagara, and Campbell Early, make up about 28% of Japan’s total wine grape harvest. These grapes are grown mainly in regions like Kikyo-Gahara and Hokkaido, and they pull double duty as both wine grapes and table grapes.

These sweet, bold grapes appeal widely, blending traditional Japanese winemaking with modern approaches. While they may not be as refined as some European varieties, they offer a unique and accessible option that showcases the diversity of Japanese wine production.

Conclusion : Japanese grape varieties

If you’re looking to explore something new and exciting, Japanese wine grape varieties are a perfect choice.

Grapes like Koshu, Muscat Bailey A, and Delaware thrive in Japan’s unique climate, creating wines that are fresh, flavorful, and distinctly Japanese. You’ll also find that winemakers are experimenting with European and American grapes, adding even more variety to what Japan has to offer.

What’s great is that these wines aren’t just about drinking—they tell a story of resilience, creativity, and connection to Japanese culture. I think you’ll love discovering how different they are from the wines you already know. So, why not step out of your comfort zone and give Japanese wines a try? You might just find a new favorite!

Where to next?

Exploring Yamanashi: The Heart of Japanese Winemaking
A deep dive into Japan’s most famous wine region, covering its wineries, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions.

A quick guide to the main wine regions in Japan: What You Need to Know
A more general overview for readers new to Japanese wines, covering the wine regions and wine styles.