ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
Château Mercian Aiakane
Glistening ruby hue. Aromas of red fruits such as cherry and strawberry, with whiffs of violet, blackberry and plum. Soft tannins and pleasant acidity harmonize beautifully, while vanilla from the barrels add complexity at the end.
HOW TO ENJOY
PAIRING
Goes along fabulously with cozy, homemade Japanese dishes with mirin and shoyu: Teriyaki Chicken and Pork with Ginger comes to mind. Brings out the best in medium-heavy dishes like lamb chops.
SERVING
Best served in a wine glass.
about the winery
CHÂTEAU MERCIAN WINERY
Château Mercian, founded in 1887, was the first privately-owned winery in Japan. It is now part of Kirin Holdings family, one of the biggest beverage companies in Japan. Yes, yes, yes, the natural inclination is to go for small, boutique businesses, but do yourself a huge favor and do NOT dismiss Mercian as some boring behemoth, because they've done fascinating work. They're actually a real game changer in Japan's wine industry—it's the big, hunkin' train that could.