Speaking of Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture, it is famous as an area with many historic wineries.
35 years ago in Katsunuma, aiming to promote town revitalization that only "wine merchants" could do through viticulture and winemaking, passionate wine brewers gathered and established the "Katsunuma Wineries Club" in February 1987.
Currently, seven companies participate, striving to produce distinctive wines centered around the Koshu grape.
And this year marks the 35th anniversary of its founding.
On February 16, a 35th-anniversary wine gathering was held at "Vinosity Maxime" in Nihonbashi, Tokyo.
A Great Success! 35th Anniversary Wine Gathering
First, the wine list that piqued everyone's interest.
Commemorating the 35th anniversary, each company brought five kinds of wines suitable for celebration, including valuable back vintages and non-for-sale items.
From the 2003 vintage of Marufuji Winery's flagship wine "Domaine Rubaiyat" (Gold Medal winner at the Japan Wine Competition) to Kinjo Winery's "Tunnel Wine Cave 10-Year Aged Vintage" 2006 Koshu, which had been resting in the town's tunnel cave for 10 years...
And even the 1987 "Château Mercian Koshu Toriibira" from the year the club was established!!
Guests who held the wine list were thrilled by these marvelous lineups.
At the venue, video messages from the winemakers were played, giving attendees a chance to reflect on the history of Katsunuma wine so far,
and to learn about the hopes for the future held by the young producers who will lead the next generation.
Particularly warming the hearts of long-time Katsunuma wine supporters were the numerous nostalgic photographs spanning 35 years displayed continuously in a slideshow.
Gazing at them, conversing with the producers, and enjoying those rare Katsunuma wines must have made for an incomparable time.
At the close of the gathering, Haruo Omura of Marufuji Winery remarked, "As this is a town steeped in history, please be sure to come visit us. We would also be delighted if a new fan base came to say, 'As expected, this truly has character and depth.'"
It was a wonderful scene from the 35th anniversary wine gathering, serving as a warm forum for exchange between the producers who carefully weave together Katsunuma's history, flavors, and passion, and the people who love and support them.