GRAPE SHIP
Kurashiki, Okayama

Grapes: Muscat of Alexandria
Type: Orange
Style: Dry, light-bodied
Colour: Pale yellow
Alcohol: 9.5%
Wild yeast: Yes
Any added sulphites: No 
Filtered: No
Serving temperature: 7-10°C
Production: 1,360 bottles
Please store in a cool, dark place.

Tasting notes
A green note of hay and straw appears at first, then gradually opens to reveal fresh aromas of white peach, Muscat, quince and lychee. On the palate, there is a savoury depth to the liquid, balanced by a gentle citrus bitterness, creating a rounded and generous impression.

Winemaking
Made entirely from organically grown Muscat of Alexandria from Funao, Kurashiki City, harvested in mid-September. The grapes underwent two weeks of skin-contact fermentation in stainless steel before pressing. Half was aged in stainless steel, while the other half was macerated for a further three weeks in enamel tanks with pressed skins from the mellow 2024 Pink Label, then re-pressed and matured. The two components were blended and bottled in December. This additional skin contact was a deliberate challenge to further express the character of Muscat of Alexandria. No fining agents were used and no sulphites were added.

In 2024, disease during the rainy season significantly reduced yields, but improved weather allowed for the harvest of healthy grapes for fermentation.

The name “mellow” is inspired by a citrus-flavoured soft drink enjoyed in childhood. It reflects the richness of ripe fruit and the hope that the wine will leave a lasting impression, bringing a sense of joy and relaxation to those who drink it. The label, designed by Art Space Aburakame, features the winemaker’s daughter and conveys the idea of “watching over.”

Nutrition Facts per 100ml
Energy: 75 kcal
Fat: 0 g
 - Saturates: 0 g
Carbohydrate: 2.0 g
 - Sugar: 2.0 g
Protein: 0.1 g
Salt: 0g