I’ve visited several Japanese wine regions, and I’ve found a fascinating wine scene that deserves more attention. With few exceptions, Japanese wine production remains largely small-scale and fragmented, which complicates its availability in export markets. Many people outside Japan primarily know about the Koshu wines from Yamanashi, thanks to marketing efforts promoting them internationally. However, Japanese wine has much more to offer beyond just Koshu.
To shed light on this often-overlooked area, Nick Rowan has released an extensive, scholarly book that serves as both a travel guide and an informative resource about Japanese wine. Having spent considerable time in Japan, Rowan is well-acquainted with its wine culture and landscape. His book includes detailed profiles of around 700 wineries, providing insight into the fragmentation of the industry. It covers essential topics such as grape varieties, viticulture practices, and the rich history of wine in Japan, all while being written in an engaging and accessible style.
This hefty 434-page hardback is presented in black and white but is crafted with great care—surpassing many traditional publisher standards, despite being self-published. It may not have a massive market, but for anyone interested in Japanese wine or planning a visit, this book is an invaluable tool.
The book can be purchased here or here in the USA.