Grace Koshu Hishiyama Single Vineyard 2022

Situated at the highest altitude in Katsunuma Town (500m-600m), the Hishiyama area is characterised by complex and diverse soils, including large granite formations scattered throughout the area. This is a region particularly cherished by Kazuo Misawa, the third-generation owner. The wine’s lively acidity and smoky minerality faithfully express the characteristics of the region. We put a rain shade on every bunch of grapes. After harvesting by hand, grapes from specific vineyards are selected, followed by fermentation and maturation in stainless steel tanks.

THE WINEFRONT

Grace Koshu Hishiyama Vineyard 2022 – 94 / 100 Points

Much like Jeff Buckley (the album ‘Grace’ sprung to mind), you’ll either love it, or it’ll leave you scratching your head wondering what all the fuss is about. A slight smokiness, melon rind, nashi pear, green tea perfume. It’s flinty, fine-boned too, offering plenty of crunch and delicate flavours of ripe green apple, lemon peel, and a lovely mouth-perfume that puts me in mind of jasmine green tea, or something along those lines. The finish is precise and long, and gee it’s such a refreshing and interesting wine. It’s not cheap, but it is beautiful. I’m touch and go for 95 points on this 2022. I love it. Alcohol: 11.5%.