Grace, Koshu Misawa Vineyard, Yamanashi, Japan 2023

Volcanic soils and vertical-shoot pruning allow the high-altitude Misawa Vineyard to showcase this century-old family producer's 'complete style', as winemaker Ayana Misawa puts it. The 2023 vintage was fermented using indigenous yeast and aged in neutral French oak barrels with malolactic fermentation. A distinctly more complex, richer expression of Koshu, featuring tropical mango, alongside candied tangerine peel, citrus blossom and mint aromas. These continue on the round, textured palate, alongside orange oil and nutmeg-seasoned yuzu. Spiced and savoury, with a spine of minerality and fresh acidity, leading to a profound finish of dried mango, crushed almonds and melon.