Koshu grapes, the variety traditionally grown in the Koshu Valley, are well adapted to Japan's climate. However, the celebrated pink-skinned grapes aren't considered true wine grapes. Wine made ...

“Koshu is a semi-aromatic grape variety, has crisp acidity and typically is lowish in alcohol, between 11.5% abv and 12.5% abv, with notes like gooseberry, white pepper and Japanese stone fruits,” she ...

are the only Japanese wine producers to have previously won the Platinum medal. L’Orient Katsunuma Koshu was brewed together with grape lees to bring out a citrusy aroma and savory grape flavor.