Hokkaido

Japan's northernmost wine region. Cool temperatures produce wines of remarkable delicacy and transparency. Hakodate, Yoichi, and Furano each offer distinct terroirs shaped by sea and mountain.

Subarctic climate, with short summers and long winters. A wide diurnal temperature range concentrates acidity and aroma in the grapes.

Serious wine production began in the 1970s, with natural producers surging in recent years. The Yoichi district in particular draws attention.