Niigata

Facing the Sea of Japan, Niigata's heavy snows melt into mineral-rich soils. The legacy of Kawashima Zenbei's pioneering winery intersects with sake culture to create wines of unique character.

Sea-of-Japan-side climate, with heavy snow and rain and short, hot, humid summers.

Iwanohara Vineyard, founded in 1890, is one of Japan's oldest wineries — over a century of history woven together with the climate and culture of Echigo.