Origins and History
While searching for an ideal site for high-quality grape growing, Château Mercian discovered this location on the Jinba plateau in the Maruko area of Ueda City, with abundant sunshine, low rainfall, good drainage and ventilation. At the time, the land included mulberry fields and had become partly idle and neglected, but with cooperation from local residents it was converted into vineyards, and Mariko Vineyard opened in 2003.\n\nSixteen years later, after the site had grown into a wine-producing area recognized internationally, Château Mercian Mariko Winery opened on a hill above the vineyard in September 2019.\n\nThe name “Mariko Vineyard” comes from Prince Mariko, a son of Emperor Kinmei, whose territory this area is said to have been in the latter half of the sixth century.
