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
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
Highly expressive and aromatic, with layered notes of ripe white peach, apricot, and loquat, joined by joshinko, wasanbon sugar, fennel, and almond powder. These complex aromas carry through to a densely flavored palate, where sweetness, acidity, umami, and bitterness are superbly balanced, leading to a long, resonant finish.
投稿日: 2026年02月09日
Fruit-forward aromas of melon, banana, and green apple are layered with the richness of shiratama dumpling-like rice notes. Slightly off-dry on the palate, yet lifted by refreshing, dairy-like acidity that keeps the overall balance light and harmonious.
投稿日: 2026年02月06日
Slightly yellow-tinged in appearance, with a gentle, mildly oxidative aromatic impression. Grain-driven aromas dominate, joined by roasted barley, baked chestnut, almond, and subtle caramel tones. Rich and flavorful on the palate, with concentrated rice-derived sweetness and umami.
投稿日: 2026年02月06日
A highly fresh and aromatic first impression, featuring pure, just-picked Granny Smith apple and La France pear, harmonized with elegant floral notes of white lily and honeysuckle. Juicy and light on the palate, with a pleasing balance of gentle sweetness and expansive acidity, finishing smooth and long.
投稿日: 2026年02月06日
A highly concentrated aromatic impression opens the experience, led by luscious notes of ripe white peach and apricot, layered with cooked rice, wasanbon sugar, and sweet herbal nuances of fennel. The broad, relaxed body is firmly framed by a powerful bitterness that tightens the overall structure.
投稿日: 2026年02月06日
A light, fruity aromatic profile with notes of apple and banana, layered with almond powder, rice flour, and white lily. The palate is smooth and silky, where rice-derived sweetness and a pleasant bitterness melt seamlessly together, leading to a long, refined, and elegant finish.
投稿日: 2026年02月06日
Aromas of concentrated yellow apple and rich jasmine, accented by white pepper and mineral hints. Exceptionally smooth and seamless texture. Layers of flavor unfold persistently, with mild umami bitterness adding depth and balance.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日