L'Orient Shirayuri Winery, Yamanashi Travel Guide

L'Orient Shirayuri Winery, established in 1938, carries the French name 'L'Orient' (meaning 'Orient') to signify its ambition to produce wines rivaling those of Europe. Located in Katsunuma, Yamanashi Prefecture, the heart of Japanese winemaking, the winery benefits from a climate ideal for grape cultivation.Katsunuma's history as a grape-growing region dates back centuries, with legends attributing the introduction of grapes to the Buddhist priest Gyoki in 718 AD. He is said to have taught locals how to cultivate the Koshu grape, which remains popular today. The area's unique terroir, characterized by long hours of sunshine and temperature variations influenced by local winds, contributes to the distinctive flavors of the wines.L'Orient Shirayuri Winery cultivates a variety of grapes, including the indigenous Koshu and Muscat Bailey A, alongside European varieties, carefully selecting those best suited to the local conditions. Visitors can explore the winemaking process from grape to bottle, tour the cellars, and sample a range of wines. The winery also offers unique experiences such as grape stomping, raw wine bottling, and custom label making. For those interested in craftsmanship, the adjacent Katsunuma Glass Workshop offers the opportunity to create personalized wine glasses and other glass items.The winery is family-run and committed to sustainable practices, blending traditional methods with modern techniques to produce wines that reflect the unique character of the Koshu Valley.