Japanese Wine Regions: Nagano Prefecture

(Nagano Prefecture)

1.Overview of Nagano Wine

Nagano Prefecture, Japan’s second-largest wine producer after Yamanashi, has focused on cultivating European grape varieties and has seen significant development under the “Shinshu Wine Valley Project.” Varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Pinot Noir are widely grown, producing high-quality wines approaching global standards. In 2021, Nagano’s grapes and wines were granted Geographical Indication (GI) status under the name “Nagano,” making it a noteworthy wine region alongside Yamanashi and Hokkaido.

2.Growing Environment for Nagano Wine

Nagano’s wine regions have an inland climate, characterized by large temperature differences between day and night. The autumn harvest season is marked by low rainfall, allowing grapes to develop high sugar levels while retaining acidity. The region’s well-drained slopes, mixed with sandy and gravelly soils carried by rivers, are ideal for grape cultivation. This environment supports the growth of European varieties, and recent climate warming has led to further improvements in wine quality.

3.History of Nagano Wine

The history of winemaking in Nagano dates back to the Meiji era as part of the government’s industrial promotion policies. In 1890, grape cultivation began in Kikyogahara, Shiojiri City, focusing initially on Concord, a cold-resistant American variety. During and after World War II, demand for sweet fruit wines surged, leading to an expansion in Concord and Niagara cultivation. Kikyogahara became a key supplier of raw materials for sweet fruit wines.

In the late 1960s, as the wine market shifted toward dry wines, Nagano began exploring European grape varieties with cold tolerance. Merlot, in particular, saw intensive cultivation and research, and in 1989, a Merlot from Kikyogahara won a gold medal at an international wine competition. This success established Kikyogahara as a renowned Merlot region.

Since 2000, the Japanese wine boom has spurred the growth of small wineries in Nagano. In 2013, the Shinshu Wine Valley Project was launched, supporting the wine industry’s growth through government efforts. This initiative divides Nagano’s primary wine regions into four valleys, aiming to develop each based on its unique characteristics. The project has led to Nagano’s recognition as a GI region under “GI Nagano.”

Through collaborative efforts between the government and private sectors, Nagano has firmly established itself as a leading Japanese wine region.

4.Main Wine-Producing Areas in Nagano

Kikyogahara Wine Valley

Located in Shiojiri City in central Nagano, Kikyogahara is known as the birthplace of Nagano wine. At an elevation of 700–800 meters, this area receives abundant sunlight and is known for Merlot cultivation. Recently, Chardonnay has also been successfully grown, along with American varieties like Concord and Niagara.

Chikumagawa Wine Valley

The Chikumagawa Valley, centered around Tomi City along the Chikuma River, is known for cultivating European varieties. The high-altitude, cool climate preserves the grapes’ acidity, producing highly regarded Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Tomi City, in particular, hosts many small wineries and actively supports the growth of young producers.

Japan Alps Wine Valley

This area stretches from Matsumoto to Azumino and is considered the origin of grape cultivation in Nagano. Wines are made from table grape varieties like Niagara, Concord, and Delaware, with an increasing number of European varieties being planted in recent years.

Tenryugawa Wine Valley

Located in the Ina Basin between the Southern and Central Alps, this area has well-drained soils and a climate with large temperature fluctuations, ideal for grape growing. The region has also seen a rise in cider production, with an increasing number of cideries.

5.Main Grape Varieties Grown in Nagano

Various grape varieties are grown in Nagano. Key varieties include:

Merlot: Known for its rich fruitiness and smooth texture, Kikyogahara is a prominent production area.

Chardonnay: Widely grown in the Japan Alps and Chikumagawa valleys, Nagano leads Japan in Chardonnay production.

Cabernet Sauvignon: This variety is increasingly cultivated in Nagano, known for its strong acidity and rich fruit flavors.

Concord: The most widely grown red wine grape in Nagano.

Niagara: An American white wine variety with a sweet, floral aroma.

6.Initiatives for the Development of Nagano Wine

Under the Shinshu Wine Valley Project, Nagano Prefecture actively supports the wine industry’s growth. Shiojiri City in the Kikyogahara Valley operates the “Shiojiri Wine University,” while the Chikumagawa Valley has established the “Chikumagawa Wine Academy” to support young producers interested in winemaking.

In addition, the “Nagano Origin Designation System (GI Nagano)” was established in 2002, allowing high-quality wines made from local grapes and winemaking techniques to be labeled with the GI Nagano seal. This system enhances the credibility of Nagano wines and raises the brand value of wines produced in the region.

7.Conclusion

Nagano Prefecture boasts an ideal environment for grape cultivation, with a cool climate and favorable soil conditions that support a diverse range of grape varieties. The growth and recognition of Nagano wine as a top-quality Japanese wine have been driven by the region’s climate, soil, advancements in viticulture, and the establishment of new wineries. As the Shinshu Wine Valley Project continues, Nagano wine is expected to draw further attention both domestically and internationally, celebrated for its high quality and diversity.