Grace - Gris de Koshu

Grace Wine, operated by Chuo Budoshu in Yamanashi Prefecture, is one of the pioneering names behind the international emergence of Japanese wine and Koshu in particular. Gris de Koshu was first created in 1999 by fourth-generation owner Shigekazu Misawa, who was inspired by the potential of Pinot Gris during a visit to Alsace. The name refers directly to Koshu’s distinctive skin colour: gris means grey in French, referencing the grape’s naturally pinkish-grey skins. Misawa conceived the wine as an accessible, versatile expression of Koshu specifically suited to the dining table. The wine is produced from 100% Koshu grown in Yamanashi Prefecture and is vinified as a dry white.

Tasting Notes
Colour: Clear, pale straw with delicate greenish highlights. Koshu itself is a pink-grey-skinned variety, but careful white-wine vinification produces a beautifully bright and delicate appearance.

Nose: Fresh and unusually aromatic for Koshu, with white peach, pear, orange, and orange peel complemented by jasmine and sandalwood. White pepper and clove introduce a subtle spicy dimension that gives the wine considerably more personality than a simple neutral white.

Palate: Smooth and rounded on entry, with pear, peach, and citrus fruit carried by refreshing acidity. The wine remains dry and restrained rather than overtly fruity, developing a subtle umami-driven savouriness that is particularly characteristic of its Japanese identity.

Finish: Clean, delicate, and refreshing, with lingering citrus peel, white pepper, floral nuances, and a gentle savoury quality. The combination of acidity and umami gives the finish excellent food-pairing versatility.