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
Light, pale raspberry pink in color. The nose is fresh with a subtle volatile lift, offering aromas of cranberry, fresh pomegranate, pink grapefruit, and red shiso, layered with herbal and spicy nuances. Dry on the palate with a slender, delicate body, while vibrant acidity keeps the wine lively from start to finish.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
Expressive and highly aromatic, with a gently pungent, spicy edge. Sweet potato leads the bouquet, layered with smoky, agave-like herbal notes and hints of white pepper. Dry on the palate, with pronounced bitterness and a firm, rustic structure.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
Highly expressive and captivating on the nose, with lavish stone fruit aromas joined by bergamot oil, lavender liqueur, and a delicate touch of Domyoji rice flour. The palate is exceptionally supple and silky, balancing gentle freshness with elegant richness while maintaining remarkable lift.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
Pure, generous, and highly aromatic, with luscious aromas of freshly picked peach and apricot framed by the noble fragrance of mountain lilies. Gentle sweetness is seamlessly integrated into the palate, creating an elegant yet approachable style that lingers through a long, beautifully balanced finish.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
The nose is restrained and grain-driven, offering oatmeal, rice flour, almond powder, and hints of ripe pear. Exceptionally dry on the palate, with a tightly structured body and a savory bitterness that evokes rich rice umami.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
Calm in tone yet beautifully integrated, this sake offers exceptional harmony from nose to palate. Green apple, pear, almond blossom, and delicate rice flour unfold over an exceptionally smooth, crystalline texture. Elegant, refined, and remarkably long on the finish, it delivers a polished, universally appealing expression.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
A rich, layered bouquet evokes ripe pear, darkened banana peel, cultured butter, and sliced almonds. The palate is gently creamy, with sweetness and umami at its core. Full-bodied and deeply satisfying, it finishes with vibrant acidity that carries impressive length.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
Overall restrained yet aromatic, with banana and melon accompanied by fresh herbal notes reminiscent of chervil. White floral fragrances add elegance to the bouquet. Slim and refined in style, with a delicate palate and a light, refreshing bitterness that neatly frames the finish.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日
Fresh fruit aromas of green apple and Shine Muscat take center stage, complemented by delicate rice flour-like sweetness. Smooth and silky on the palate, with a soft, approachable texture. A gentle bitterness on the finish adds freshness and stimulates the appetite.
投稿日: 2026年07月18日