In the wine world, Japan isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But in the foothills of Mount Fuji, Koshu grapes are making a quiet impact, and wine lovers can taste Japanese terroir. With a history over 1000 years old, Koshu is Japan’s secret gem, and the country’s rich culture and attention to detail.

Koshu History

The origins of Koshu are unknown, but it’s thought to have been brought to Japan from the Caucasus region via the Silk Road around 1300 years ago. For centuries it was eaten rather than made into wine. It wasn’t until the late 19th century, during the Meiji era, that Koshu was first vinified and Japan’s wine industry was born.

Today Koshu is grown mainly in Yamanashi Prefecture which accounts for around 95% of Japan’s wine production. The region’s climate, hot and humid summers and cold winters, is perfect for Koshu. The volcanic soil, enriched by Mount Fuji, gives the grapes a unique mineral taste and Koshu wines are truly of their place.

Koshu Wine Characteristics

Koshu wines are light and subtle, perfect for those who like a lighter style of wine. The grapes produce a pale straw coloured wine with a pinkish tint, a reference to the grape skin. On the nose Koshu wines have white peach, citrus and floral notes with a hint of minerality from the volcanic soil.

On the palate Koshu wines are crisp and refreshing with bright acidity making them very food friendly. The flavours are delicate, often described as citrus, apple and pear with a hint of umami which pairs beautifully with Japanese food. The low alcohol, around 11-12%, makes it a great wine for casual and serious wine drinkers alike.

Grace Winery: Koshu Pioneers

Among Koshu producers, Grace Winery is one of the most respected and innovative. Located in the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture, Grace Winery has been at the forefront of Japan’s wine industry since 1923. They are known for their quality and being the first to produce Koshu wines that showcase the grape’s unique characteristics.

Grace Winery’s Koshu wines are elegant, balanced and terroir expressive. The winery takes great care in the vineyard and winemaking to ensure each bottle is a true representation of the Koshu grape. Their flagship wine, the Grace Koshu, is the perfect example of what this grape can produce – delicate floral aromas, crisp acidity and a refined mineral finish that lingers on the palate.

Koshu and Japanese Food

One of the best things about Koshu wine is how it pairs with Japanese food. The subtlety and elegance of the wine makes it a perfect match for dishes like sushi, sashimi and tempura where the focus is on the purity of the ingredients. The acidity of Koshu cuts through the richness of grilled fish or pork, and the mineral notes enhance the umami in miso soup or soy sauce based dishes.

Beyond Japanese food, Koshu’s versatility extends to many international cuisines. Its light body and crisp finish makes it a great match for Mediterranean food, seafood and light salads. Whether with food or on its own, Koshu is a refreshing and sophisticated drink.

Koshu in Australia

For wine lovers in Australia, the good news is that Koshu wines, including those from Grace Winery, are becoming more available. As Japanese wine interest grows, more Australian retailers and importers are starting to stock Koshu wines so you can try it without leaving the country. Whether you want to try Grace Winery or other Koshu producers, now is the time to add this Japanese gem to your cellar.

Koshu’s Growing Fame

Koshu wine is gaining international recognition. Japanese winemakers are fine tuning their skills and producing wines that can compete with the best in the world. The uniqueness of Koshu has caught the attention of sommeliers and wine critics and exports are increasing and Koshu is appearing in wine markets outside Japan, including Australia.

Despite its growing popularity, Koshu is still a niche product and a chance for wine lovers to try something different and new. For those looking to broaden their wine horizons, Koshu is a window into Japan’s emerging wine scene.

Final Thoughts

The Koshu grape is proof that Japan can blend tradition and modernity and create something unique. As more people around the world try Koshu wine, it’s clear this grape from the foot of Mount Fuji has a lot to look forward to. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just curious, Koshu is worth trying – an elegant and understated expression of Japan’s terroir and winemaking history. Now with Grace Winery wines available in Australia, it’s just a bottle away.