Domaine Nakajima
Tomi, Nagano

Grapes: Cabernet Franc
Type: Red
Style: Dry, light-bodied
Colour: Pale ruby
Alcohol: 10.0%
Wild yeast: Yes
Any added sulphites: 35 ppm 
Filtered: No
Serving temperature: 13-16°C
Production: 1,190 bottles
Please store in a cool, dark place.

Tasting notes
A delicate yet expressive Cabernet Franc. Aromas of cassis, blackcurrant, and pomegranate are layered with subtle herbal and gently green nuances. The palate is soft and approachable, combining silky tannins with a savoury character reminiscent of umeboshi and bonito. Bright acidity provides lift and freshness, creating a wine with elegance, balance, and quiet depth.

The wine may appear slightly reserved immediately after opening, but gradually unfolds over time, revealing greater aromatic complexity and depth of flavour. It can be enjoyed over 3–4 days after opening.

Food pairing
Grilled Pacific saury, monkfish liver with grated daikon and chilli, bonito tataki, yakitori (salt), simmered beef in soy sauce and ginger, roast duck, pork shabu-shabu, charcoal-grilled mushrooms, braised lentils, pâté de campagne, Comté cheese.

Winemaking
Made from 100% Cabernet Franc grown in Domaine Nakajima’s estate vineyards in Tomi City, Nagano. The 2024 growing season was marked by consistently warm conditions, with changing rainfall and sunshine patterns during the harvest period. Reflecting the character of the vintage, the wine emphasises bright acidity, delicate fruit expression, and drinkability rather than power or concentration.

After destemming, the grapes were fermented in open-top resin tanks for approximately two and a half weeks. The tanks were filled with CO₂, while remontage and pigeage were carried out throughout fermentation. The wine was then pressed in a vertical basket press and matured in used 225L French oak barrels. No sulphur dioxide was added and no racking was carried out during élevage; 35ppm of sulphur dioxide was added only prior to bottling.

Rather than pursuing power or concentration, Domaine Nakajima’s Cabernet Franc seeks to express the character of the vineyard and vintage as honestly as possible. It is a wine that reflects its place and season while sitting naturally alongside everyday meals.

Nutrition Facts per 100ml
Energy: 58 kcal
Fat: 0 g
 - Saturates: 0 g
Carbohydrate: 0.8 g
 - Sugar: 0.8 g
Protein: 0.1 g
Salt: 0g