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
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
Aromas of oatmeal, raw rice grain, sliced almond, and yellow apple. Overall restrained yet elegant. The smooth palate shows gentle bitterness and umami that tighten and balance the flavor.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
Gentle yet complex aromas of banana, freshly pounded rice, almond shell, and mace spice. Rich and layered on the palate, with deep umami and a long, lingering finish.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
Dominated by tropical aromas of banana and pineapple with sweet notes of lily and honeysuckle. Fennel and fresh ginger add a lively herbal accent. Sweetness leads the palate, joined by vivid acidity. Sweet-and-tart, friendly, and approachable in style.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
Dominated by aromas of freshly cooked rice and soft mochi, accented by faint notes of wasanbon sugar, cinnamon, apricot, and persimmon. Dry and firmly structured, with pronounced umami and bitterness lending depth and intensity.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
Fresh and aromatic, with notes of freshly picked green apple and pear accented by jasmine and yogurt. Juicy and light on the palate, showing a gentle sweetness balanced by a faint bitterness. The smooth texture delivers an approachable character, finishing with a hint of white pepper.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
The aroma is gentle and slightly fruity, with rich sweet-potato nuances from the raw ingredients. Smooth in texture with subtle spice tones and a firm bitterness that sharpens the finish. A smart, lean body.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
A pungent and stimulating first impression on the nose, dominated by toasty aromas with a hint of citrus zest. The palate is exceptionally smooth and mellow.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
Deeply smoky and savory first impression. Dark cherry, boysenberry, and elderberry fruit merge with earthy, root-spice elements. Firm, grippy tannins lend chew and structure, with notable astringency.
投稿日: 2025年11月21日
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