On November 25, 2025, a launch event for the new brand "YAWARAI" by KYOHO JAPAN Co., Ltd. was held in Tokyo. Kyoho grapes boast enduring popularity for fresh table consumption. As a wine grape variety, it might be considered something "for those in the know," occasionally appearing in tastings for the Japanese Wine Examination.
In fact, the history of this Kyoho wine has been handed down for over 50 years. And now, with the arrival of "YAWARAI," a brand-new page has been added.
A One-of-a-Kind Wine Culture Born in Tanushimaru
KYOHO JAPAN Co., Ltd. crafts wine in Tanushimaru Town, Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Overlooking the Mino Mountain Range, this area is one of Japan's leading fruit-producing regions with a long history of fruit cultivation, renowned particularly as a prime producing area for Kyoho grapes.
Centering on Kyoho, the company develops fruit wines using local produce such as Amaou strawberries, persimmons, and amanatsu citrus. Without relying on artificial colorings or flavorings, they have remained committed to brewing that brings out the unique characteristics of the ingredients.
Since its founding in 1972, the winery established the world's first 100% Kyoho wine, carrying on the tradition for 53 years.
Birth of the New Brand "YAWARAI"!
— Cherishing harmony, weaving with love.
This is a Japanese rosé brand expressing this philosophy.
Clear acidity and gentle sweetness that defy what one would expect from Kyoho. On the palate, a crisp acidity reminiscent of early summer morning dew unfolds, followed softly by the rich, mellow fruitiness derived from Kyoho. Dry and elegant, yet approachable.
It is a rosé sparkling wine that can be freely enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with meals.
At the beginning of the presentation, the company's Representative Director Takashi Tsujita stated as follows:
"This YAWARAI is a challenge to communicate the power of history and the local region as a distinctly Japanese culture of 'drinking harmony' (wanomi = Japanese wine). 53 years walked together with Kyoho. Today marks the beginning of a new journey."
Behind this lies the philosophy set forth by the 13th-generation brewery master Denbei Hayashida, who created Kyoho wine in the founding era: the ideal of "Japanese wine that pairs with Japanese cuisine."
Brand Producer Mr. Shirai says regarding the concept of YAWARAI: "The 'spirit of wa (harmony)' lies at the root of Japanese culture. An aesthetic of accepting, harmonizing, and bringing an end to conflict. YAWARAI is a rosé sparkling wine that captures that philosophy in a bottle."
Rollouts have already been decided for 5-star hotels in Tokyo and luxury overseas markets such as Hong Kong and Dubai, raising high expectations for it as a globally minded brand.
(From left) KYOHO JAPAN Co., Ltd. Representative Director Takashi Tsujita / KYOHO JAPAN Co., Ltd. Fruit Winemaker Noritomo Kawashima
Fruit Winemaker Noritomo Kawashima Speaks on Making Kyoho Wine
The newly unveiled "YAWARAI" is designed to bring out the inherent gorgeous aroma and delicate acidity of Kyoho grapes.
The vinification employs a method close to white winemaking, pressing after destemming and crushing to extract a faint pink color derived from the skins. By filtering at the moment the aroma reaches its peak and deliberately arresting fermentation, the distinctive aromas of Kyoho are preserved.
Tasting notes are as follows:
- Aroma: White peach, raspberry, Amaou strawberry, violet, wasanbon sugar, subtle spice
- Taste: Dry. Supported by gentle effervescence and delicate acidity, with a characteristically Kyoho sweetness lingering on the finish
- Pairing: Tempura, sushi, duck, white fish, appetizers, Asian cuisine, etc.
What is particularly noteworthy is its "lightness." With an alcohol content of 10.8%, its gentle carbonation and pristine acidity accompany meals without overpowering their delicate flavors.
Mr. Kawashima concluded with the following:
"I make this while conversing with the fruit, asking what kind of wine Kyoho wants to become. I would be delighted if this bottle serves as an opportunity to connect people with one another."
With the wish embedded in its brand name that "it may serve as an occasion for hearts to unwind, soften, and create harmony," YAWARAI
raises high expectations for the beginning of a new Kyoho wine culture.
Lineup
| Product | Type | Volume | Price (tax included) |
| YAWARAI Rosé Sparkling | Rosé Sparkling | 750ml | ¥5,500 |
| YAWARAI Rosé Sparkling Half | Rosé Sparkling | 375ml | ¥3,300 |
| YAWARAI Assemblage 1973×2024 (Limited to 50 bottles) | Premium Rosé | 750ml | ¥73,000 |
KYOHO JAPAN Co., Ltd.
