Katsunuma Jyozo, Aruga Branca Issehara Koshu, Yamanashi, Japan 2023

Founded in 1937, Katsunuma Jozo became one of the first Japanese producers to export its wines to the EU through a partnership with Château Pape Clément. Its flagship wine, Aruga Branca Issehara is a single-vineyard Koshu sourced from sandy soils. The 2023 vintage features a smoky, grassy nose of green fruits and gooseberry. Aged in stainless steel tanks, it highlights the saline and mineral qualities of Koshu, with elegant and subtle lime and green zest. Clean and refreshing.