The phantom Koshu 2020 that even the chief winemaker was surprised to find "unavailable even to us"

An unexpected "answer" from Hokuto Vineyard in Hokkaido. This is a heartwarming story about a bottle that has been carefully aged in Sumitaya's cellar, and the people who made it.

Last month, when I visited Hokuto Vineyard in Hokkaido, I had an unexpected encounter. I met Mr. Yuji Saito, the chief winemaker of "Koshu Barrel Fermented 2020" which is aged in Sumitaya's cellar, in person at the vineyard. Koshu Barrel Fermented 2020 is a wine crafted at Grand Polaire Katsunuma Winery in Katsunuma Town, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. I was pleasantly surprised, as I never expected to be able to speak with the producer of that wine in a completely different location.

01 "Phantom 2020" even surprised the winemaker

When I told him, "Actually, the 2020 vintage has been sleeping in our cellar and was just released recently," he replied with a surprised voice, "What? We can't even get our hands on it anymore!" It was truly a phantom vintage that was hardly available in the market, not even to the producers themselves. It's a bottle that we can now deliver precisely because we carefully aged it in our cellar with strict temperature control.

02 The winemakers themselves bought and tasted it

Following this interaction, the winemakers decided to purchase the wine themselves. Later, the members of Hokuto Vineyard uncorked and tasted it.

As expected of experienced winemakers, their prediction was precise, but the actual impression surpassed their expectations.

It's rare to witness such a moment when winemakers themselves are surprised and captivated by the "afterlife" of the wine they created. When I heard their words, "As winemakers, we are extremely happy and grateful for the opportunity to purchase such a valuable wine and for it to have been aged in such perfect storage conditions," I felt as though the Grand Polaire Koshu Barrel Fermented 2020, which we had meticulously aged with temperature control, had finally been rewarded.

03 This bottle, from Sumitaya's cellar

This is a precious opportunity to savor a wine from a year that even the winemaker has let go of, in its optimal condition. Please consider it for your special occasions.

Rare Back Vintage

【Hard to Obtain 2020】Grand Polaire Yamanashi Koshu Barrel Fermented 750ml

A rare bottle crafted at Grand Polaire Katsunuma Winery in Katsunuma Town, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and aged under temperature control in Sumitaya's cellar. Enjoy its aging aroma reminiscent of apricot and quince, and a clean finish.

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※Please check the product page for the latest price and stock information.

04 Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of grape is Koshu?

Koshu is a native Japanese white grape variety representing Yamanashi Prefecture. It is characterized by its gentle aroma and a balance of mild fruitiness and subtle bitterness, and is known for pairing well with Japanese cuisine.

How does barrel fermentation change the taste?

By fermenting in wooden barrels instead of stainless steel tanks, the wine gains richness, body, and toasty nuances from the barrel, resulting in a more complex flavor. As it ages, it develops an even mellower character.

What are the ideal serving temperature and storage methods?

As a rich white wine, serving it lightly chilled at around 10-14℃ will bring out its aroma and finish beautifully. For storage, keep it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, re-cork it, refrigerate, and enjoy promptly.

The phantom Koshu 2020, born from the encounter of the winemaker's passion and Sumitaya's dedication to aging. You are sure to feel the accumulation of time with every sip. If you're interested, please visit the product page. (Text by Yoko Hironaka)