History of Japanese Wine
The journey of Japanese wine stretches from the 1400s to today’s global-facing boutique producers. Here’s how it evolved.
"Father of Japanese wine” Zenbei Kawakami
©︎Iwanohara Vineyard
Origins and Early Influences
Wine first entered Japan in 1466 as “Nanban wine” imported from China.
Domestic winemaking began around 1580 with grape juice mixed with liquor, as recorded in period documents.
During the Edo era (1603-1868), winemaking spread, partly thanks to Dutch books introducing grape fermentation and the term “wine”.
Meiji Era Modernisation and Pioneers
In the Meiji period (1868-1912), Japan’s government encouraged viticulture and wine production as part of its industrial development.
The first private Japanese winery was founded in 1877.
In 1895, Zenbei Kawakami established Iwanohara Vineyard in Niigata, importing European/US vine varieties and in 1927 developed Muscat Bailey A — a vine suited to Japan’s climate.
Post-War Boom and Modern Regulation
After World War II, wine consumption in Japan grew, boosted by the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and the 1970 Expo.
In 1995, the Japan Sommelier Association was founded, and in the late 1980s the “Beaujolais Nouveau” boom helped popularise wine culture in Japan.
In 2015 the Japanese National Tax Agency introduced a quality-labelling system for viticulture regions and varieties, implemented in 2018. Under this system, a wine can only carry a geographical designation if the vineyard and winery are in the same region, resulting in further growth of domestic vineyards and wineries across Japan.
Why This History Matters for Professionals
For restaurants, hotels and retailers seeking distinctive Japanese wines, this historical context adds:
1. Authenticity — Wines with roots stretching back centuries
2. Narrative value — Storytelling potential for menus and guests
3. Quality assurance — From pioneers to modern regulation, the Japanese wine industry has matured
When you serve a wine grown in a vineyard founded by pioneering figures or under regulated appellation systems, you’re offering more than a bottle — you’re offering cultural heritage.