#Japan #Upcycling #Niki #NIKI HILLS #Wine Tea

NIKI Hills Winery's Innovative Wine Tea

In a unique move towards sustainability, NIKI Hills Winery, located in the picturesque town of Niki, Hokkaido, is set to launch its newest product—wine tea made from grape pomace, the leftover skins and seeds from the winemaking process. This product will be available online starting March 8, timed perfectly with International Women's Day. The initiative is a manifestation of the winery's commitment to zero waste and environmental regeneration, led by a team of talented women in winemaking, viticulture, and sommelier roles.

Embracing Sustainability

During peak harvest season, each day results in tons of grape pomace, which poses a significant waste management challenge. While composting is a viable option, logistical hurdles arise, including the labor-intensive transportation and drying processes, as well as pest issues. As the head winemaker, Ota Makiko is determined to transform these challenges into community-focused initiatives. Her view that “we borrow the Earth from future generations” drives her to seek sustainable solutions that will benefit both the local economy and the environment.

Women's Day Celebration

March 8 is recognized as International Women's Day—a day to reflect upon women's achievements and experiences. Driven by a desire to create a beverage that mothers and expecting women can enjoy, the wine tea is naturally caffeine-free, embodying the sensitivity and perspective that women bring to winemaking. This special product caters to those distanced from wine due to changing life stages and ensures that everyone can partake in the enjoyment of this creation.

Highlights of the Wine Tea

Varietal: Made from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the winery’s vineyards, this wine tea aims to be a delightful experience for all.

Caffeine-Free: Accommodating pregnant and nursing women as well as those who prefer no caffeine while providing the rich aromas associated with wine.

Upcycling: The initiative aims to create circularity within the community. The use of grape pomace extends further than just this product; it includes providing feed to local poultry farmers and creating culinary dishes, candles, and accessories. This wine tea represents a significant step in this journey toward sustainability.

Winemaker's Aspirations

Makiko Ota expresses her belief that “winemaking is an inherited craft that should last for generations.” While they have not yet achieved a completely waste-free process, she is confident that community engagement in addressing this challenge will affect a brighter future for Niki Town and even for Japanese wine as a whole. She hopes that this initiative inspires interest in sustainable practices and local ecosystems.

Product Details

• - Name: Wine Tea (using Pinot Noir)
• - Launch Date: March 8, 2026 (International Women’s Day)
• - Sales Location: Official online store; also available at NIKI Hills Winery’s on-site shop
• - Price: 216 JPY per bag / 1,080 JPY for a box of 6 bags (tax included)

About NIKI Hills Winery

Operated by the DAC Group, NIKI Hills Winery aims to revitalize the once declining community of Niki. Business operations began in 2014, with a grand opening in 2019 showcasing a 33-hectare estate complete with a winery, vineyards, natural gardens, a restaurant, and accommodations. The winery is renowned for its award-winning wines and focuses on enriching the local community through wine tourism, attracting visitors from around the world.

Visit us at NIKI Hills Winery.

About DAC Holdings

• - Company Name: DAC Holdings Co., Ltd.
• - CEO: Kazunori Ishikawa
• - Location: 13F TIXTOWER UENO, 4-8-1 Higashi-Ueno, Taitō-ku, Tokyo, 110-0015, Japan
• - Number of Employees: 975 (total DAC Group employees)
• - Website: DAC Group