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
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
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