Hakutsuru Sake Brewing to launch premium Kobe grape wine series

Hakutsuru Sake Brewing Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of ‘Kobe Reserva’, a new premium wine series made from 100% Kobe-grown grapes. The limited-edition series is scheduled for nationwide release in Japan on September 11, 2026.

The inaugural 2025 vintage will feature two varieties: ‘Kobe Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon’ and ‘Kobe Reserva Riesling’. The brand is designed to highlight single varieties from optimal growing regions, produced only during years when high-quality grapes are harvested.

The Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the Osawa district in Kita-ku, Kobe, and is characterized by notes of cassis and blueberry. The Riesling is sourced from the Oshibedani district in Nishi-ku, Kobe, utilizing grapes from vines over 40 years old. This variety is noted for its difficulty to cultivate in Japan, but the Oshibedani terroir has supported its production through hand-harvesting methods.