#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyu Group #Nagano Wine #Takayama Blanc

Introducing Takayama Blanc 2023

As part of its initiative to promote the charm of Nagano’s wines, the Tokyu Group announced the launch of its second original wine, Takayama Blanc 2023, which will be available at its department stores, supermarkets, and restaurants this autumn.

A Unique Blend from Shinshu Takayama Winery

This exquisite 750ml bottle is priced at 4,400 yen, with variations in pricing at hotel restaurants. The Takayama Blanc 2023 is a blended white wine created by combining various grape varieties harvested from multiple vineyards in Takayama Village. Its production embraces the concept of “diversity,” making it a versatile wine suitable for all types of cuisine and occasions.

Flavor Profile

The wine has attracted attention due to the high-quality Chardonnay from Takayama Village, along with Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer, all contributing their unique characteristics to this complex blend. It offers a floral aroma reminiscent of roses, mixed with hints of Japanese citrus fruits. The fruitful taste, abundant in 2023’s favorable growing conditions, is balanced by a refreshing acidity, resulting in a delightful drinking experience.

The Takayama Winery

Established in 2016, the Takayama Winery is located in Takayama Village in Nagano Prefecture, which sits at an elevation of 400 to 800 meters, characterized by its diverse growing environments perfect for viticulture. The wines crafted here are carefully developed by specialists in winemaking and vineyard management, earning high praise including a four-star rating at the Japan Winery Awards. The winery's commitment to showcasing the region's appeal has attracted a loyal fanbase.

Availability and Locations

The Takayama Blanc 2023 will be rolled out starting from October 15 at various Tokyu Department Store locations and online, with offerings from:

• - Tokyu Department Store: from October 15
• - Nagano Tokyu Department Store: starting November 6
• - Tokyu Store: from October 15, featuring several select locations

- Pressé Den-en-chōfu Store
- Pressé Nakameguro Store

• - Tokyu Hotels & Resorts: from October 15, across several locations including The Capitol Hotel Tokyu and Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu.

Sommelier Conference Highlights

Recently held, the Sommelier Conference brought together 27 sommeliers from various Tokyu Group companies to taste and discuss the Takayama Blanc 2023. The experts shared their thoughts:

• - “This wine features gentle acidity, rich fruitiness, and a subtle mineral finish. I encourage everyone to enjoy it while imagining the beautiful air and water of Nagano.”
• - “With its fruity and approachable scent and solid flavor, it pairs wonderfully with wild vegetables and pasta with pesto sauce, enhancing the wine’s sharp yet pleasant bitterness.”

Upcoming Tasting Events

One of the significant events to feature the Takayama Blanc 2023 is the Shibuya SAKE Scramble. Taking place on October 11, 2025, this event will allow participants to sample the wine and other local products from Nagano Prefecture, which is recognized as one of Japan's premier sake regions.

Event Details:

• - Date: October 11, 2025
• - Time: Three sessions: 12:00-14:00, 15:00-17:00, 18:00-20:00
• - Location: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu 6th Floor, Tokyo
• - Tickets: 3,980 yen (advance), 4,980 yen (with food), 4,500 yen (on the day)

You can read more about the event here.

Ongoing Efforts to Promote Nagano Wines

Aoyama, a wine buyer from Tokyu Department Store, emphasized the quality of Nagano wines driven by the region's rich nature and passionate growers. These efforts began in 2020 with a visit to Domaine Kosei Winery in Nagano’s Shiratori City, leading to the sale of selected barrels in Tokyu Department Store. Fast forward to 2024, the successful collaboration between Tokyu Group sommeliers laid the foundation for the creation of the first original wine.

The upcoming release of Takayama Blanc 2023 marks a continuation of this initiative, now involving four company sommeliers who visited Shinshu Takayama Winery. By utilizing the unique characteristics of the region, they aim to express original wine variations from diverse terroirs.

Tokyu Group will continue enhancing local economic vitality through initiatives anchored in community connections, promoting Nagano’s products and increasing consumer awareness.

Company Overview

• - Tokyu Department Store: Known for its retail excellence in Shibuya and beyond, focusing on creating new customer values and contributing to regional quality of life.
• - Nagano Tokyu Department Store: The only department store in the area, dedicated to community engagement and promoting local products.
• - Tokyu Store: A food supermarket chain focusing on quality shopping experiences for local residents.
• - Tokyu Hotels & Resorts: Comprising various hotel brands across the country, known for personalized service and creating memorable stays.

For more detailed information about each company, please visit their respective websites: Tokyu Department Store, Nagano Tokyu, Tokyu Store, and Tokyu Hotels.