Wataru Iwata
THE THOUSAND KYOTO Cheif Sommelier
Profile
While studying at Doshisha University, Wataru Iwata spent time studying abroad in New Zealand, where he discovered his passion for wine. He devoted three years to studying wine and later traveled to wineries across Europe. In 2014, he earned his sommelier certification. Wataru won the 8th All Japan Best Sommelier Competition in 2017 and, in 2018, won the 4th A.S.I. A.S.I.a & Oceania Best Sommelier Competition. He placed 11th in the 16th A.S.I. World’s Best Sommelier Competition in 2019 and achieved 5th place in the 17th edition of the competition in 2023. He currently serves as the Chief Sommelier at THE THOUSAND KYOTO.
Reviews
The nose is centered on red fruits, with layered nuances of mixed berries reminiscent of boysenberry. Alongside the fruit, earthy tones and dry spice accents add complexity. On the palate, ripe fruit flavors are complemented by a pronounced oak influence. Light tannins provide a gentle grip and structure.
投稿日: 2026年06月03日
Highly aromatic and fruit-driven, led by red fruits layered with red floral notes. Expressive on the nose, with a juicy, lively palate. Almost no tannin, resulting in a bright, light-bodied red wine style.
投稿日: 2026年06月03日
Smooth on entry, with a touch of spice adding dimension. A firm bitterness provides structure and drives the finish with intensity.
投稿日: 2026年06月03日
Sweet, toasty aromas reminiscent of baked sweet potato are layered with hints of cooked apple. Accents of sweet spice such as anise and fennel add nuance. Smooth and silky on the palate, with a soft, composed profile and well-integrated flavors. A highly balanced and approachable style.
投稿日: 2026年06月03日
Rice-derived sweetness and umami spread elegantly across the palate, creating a rich and generous expression. A light bitterness provides structure and definition.
投稿日: 2026年06月03日
Notes of melon and banana are layered with a slightly creamy nuance reminiscent of cottage cheese, alongside a faint floral hint of lilac. The palate is composed and structured, with a pleasant bitterness supported by rice-derived umami, creating a smart, refined style. The finish is medium to long.
投稿日: 2026年06月03日
The palate is complex and deep, with multilayered flavors unfolding. A dense mid-palate leads into a long, lingering finish.
投稿日: 2026年06月02日
Subtle green herbal nuances enhance the freshness. The palate is sweet and juicy, with refined rice-derived sweetness spreading elegantly across the mouth.
投稿日: 2026年05月26日
Pure notes of Japanese pear and citrus are complemented by floral nuances of lily and honeysuckle, enhancing its aromatic character. The balance of sweetness and acidity is excellent, with a moderate sense of volume and a refined, structured impression. The finish is long and elegant.
投稿日: 2026年05月25日
投稿日: 2026年05月25日