Founded in 1924! The Evolution of a Long-Established Winery: Haramo Wine

Katsunuma in Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is home to a row of historic wineries.
Among them, we visited Haramo Wine, a venerable establishment founded in 1924.
Haramo Wine... It is said that this name originated because the area was historically known as "Hara," and the family patriarchs inherited the name Mozaemon for generations.

Back then, it was established as a cooperative where local farmers brought their grapes together to make wine for their own consumption, later becoming a corporation in the 1970s.
Today, they cultivate 1.5 hectares of estate vineyards alongside 4 hectares of contracted local farm plots, producing 50 kiloliters annually.

Crafting sound, healthy wine using local grapesis the ultimate prerequisite.
Despite being a very old building, everything from the winery interior to the shop is kept impeccably clean.
They carefully craft their wine according to the condition of the grapes.

The varieties handled include Koshu, as well as Almonoir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, and more.
Among these, they are placing special emphasis on Almonoir, a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Zweigeltrebe.
Bred at the Yamanashi Fruit Tree Experiment Station, this variety is now grown in many parts of the prefecture. The president also reportedly likes that the spelling "ALMONOIR" resembles "HARAMO"—which indeed makes it easy to remember.

Their Almonoir vines are now in their sixth year. With yields increasing, there is much to look forward to in the future!

The garden is delightful, featuring an atmospheric building constructed during the Meiji era and a large grape trellis that seems to connect to the tiled roof of the main house.
If you look closely, this grape trellis is supported by a single, massive old vine—a table grape variety called Citronnelle planted in 1949.
You can truly feel the history here.
Wine can be enjoyed right under the trellis, making it a wonderful spot to drink outdoors during the warmer months.

Of course, tastings are also available inside the stylish main house, which feels like a renovated traditional home cafe.
With around 12 wine selections, why not try a few and find your favorite?

It is the kind of winery that makes you want to visit as soon as you feel a hint of spring in the air.
Sipping Haramo Wine's Almonoir under the grape trellis comes highly recommended.

Click here for winery information!

https://nihonwine.jp/winery_intro/haramo/