Sakai Winery
Nanyo, Yamagata

Grapes: Pinot Gris
Type: White
Style: Dry, medium-bodied
Colour: Pale gold
Alcohol: 12.0%
Wild yeast: Yes
Any added sulphites: 30 ppm
Filtered: No
Serving temperature: 7-10°C
Production: 1,900 bottles
Please store in a cool, dark place.

Tasting notes
Fresh aromas of pear and apricot are layered with sweet white blossom, preserved lemon and a hint of ginger. On the palate, juicy yellow apple joins notes of lemon and lime, complemented by mineral and herbal nuances. Lively acidity and a gentle bitterness provide structure, resulting in a clean, refreshing finish. Opening the bottle around 30 minutes before serving is recommended. The wine can be enjoyed for up to three days after opening.

Food pairing
Kombu-cured sea bream, tempura of mountain vegetables, grilled fish, lightly pickled turnip, salt-koji grilled chicken, pan-seared scallops with lemon butter sauce, herb-grilled pork loin, agedashi tofu, Japanese rolled omelette (dashimaki tamago), mussels steamed in white wine, Niçoise salad, hummus.

Winemaking
Founded in 1892, Sakai Winery is one of Japan’s long-established producers. Staying true to a traditional, non-filtered approach, the winery takes time and care to craft wines slowly, allowing nature to guide the process.

The 2024 vintage was another warm year, if slightly less extreme than the previous season. With a focus on preserving the grapes’ natural character, fermentation proceeded gently and slowly with wild yeasts, followed by ageing in stainless steel tanks.

The name of the wine is inspired by the beautiful blue-green hues of the Japanese green woodpecker, reflecting the wine’s refreshing and vibrant personality.

Nutrition Facts per 100ml
Energy: 73 kcal
Fat: 0 g
 - Saturates: 0 g
Carbohydrate: 2.0 g
 - Sugar: 2.0 g
Protein: 0.1 g
Salt: 0g