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
Expressive and concentrated, with ripe fruit character. A soft entry integrates lively acidity, leading to a long, persistent finish.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
Creamy, rich, and full-bodied. Balanced between pleasant bitterness and concentrated umami. Deep, layered, and complex.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
Fresh, light, and dry with a faint bitterness. Gentle aromas of fresh apple, citrus, and herbs like chervil add a refreshing nuance.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
Light and easy-drinking overall. Aromas of Granny Smith apple with hints of chervil and fresh bamboo add to the refreshing character. A touch of yogurt-like nuance enhances its charm. Fresh, approachable, and effortlessly drinkable.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
Pure and aromatic, with freshly picked apple and pear aromas highlighted by delicate white floral notes. The smooth texture is striking, enriched by rice-derived sweetness and umami, making for an elegant sake.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
A subtle and restrained first impression with delicate cereal-driven aromas, accented by raw almond and sweet spice. A sleek body is carried by light bitterness, which tightens the flavors through the finish.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
A rich aroma of green apple and Japanese citrus peel, complemented by rice-driven notes reminiscent of freshly pounded mochi. Soft on the palate, where sweetness contrasts with light bitterness, adding depth.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
An intense, concentrated aroma of roasted rice crackers, baked chestnuts, and sweet potato.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
Toasty barley notes accented by a hint of damp wool. Smooth in texture, somewhat lean in body, lacking mid-palate fullness, with a smoky finish.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日
Top notes of toasted barley, accented by bittersweet spices like licorice and root spice. The palate is bold and flavorful, with alcohol-derived sweetness and an exceptionally long finish where the toasty aromas linger gracefully.
投稿日: 2025年10月07日