グレイスワイナリー明野のランチ
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Grace Winery Chuo Wine Co.

4.2
·197 reviews·Koshu, Japan

Family-owned estate since 1923, renowned for its Koshu grape wines, offering tastings with scenic views and a blend of Japanese-European charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting

CrowdLow
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グレイスワイナリー明野のランチ

Grace Winery Chuo Wine Co.

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Family-owned estate since 1923, renowned for its Koshu grape wines, offering tastings with scenic views and a blend of Japanese-European charm.

4.2
(197 reviews)

"The team are super lovely and welcoming, with a lovely view from the second floor tasting room."

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TIP

🎯 English-Speaking Staff Available

Great news for international visitors! Many reviewers mention the availability of English-speaking staff, making your visit smooth and enjoyable.

⬆️ Tasting Room is Upstairs

Be aware the tasting room is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. Plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Koshu Grape Wines

Koshu Grape Wines

Tasting Room

Savor the unique flavors of Japan's signature white grape, Koshu, known for its delicate aromas and crisp finish.

Scenic Tasting Room Views

Scenic Tasting Room Views

Second Floor Tasting Room

Enjoy your wine with a picturesque backdrop, blending European-esque winery design with Japanese aesthetics.

Family Estate History

Family Estate History

Winery Grounds

Experience the charm of a winery founded in 1923, offering a glimpse into Japan's evolving wine heritage.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tasting in Advance

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking a tasting session, especially for English-speaking tours, is highly recommended to ensure availability and a seamless experience. This avoids disappointment, particularly during peak seasons.

Accessibility Considerations

The main tasting room is located on the second floor and is accessible via stairs. If you have mobility concerns, it's advisable to contact Grace Winery in advance to inquire about any potential accommodations or alternative viewing areas.

Best Times

When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Lockdown lineup

🎯 English-Speaking Staff Available

Great news for international visitors! Many reviewers mention the availability of English-speaking staff, making your visit smooth and enjoyable. Reddit

⬆️ Tasting Room is Upstairs

Be aware the tasting room is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. Plan accordingly if mobility is a concern. Reddit

reddit.com

I’ve visited 80+ of Japan’s 500 wineries and tasted wines from 300+ producers in Japan. Want to know more about Japanese wine? AMA

🍷 Koshu & Chardonnay Standouts

Don't miss trying their Koshu and Chardonnay wines, both highly praised for their excellent taste and pairing potential. Reddit

💰 Tasting Portions Can Vary

Some visitors have noted that tasting portions can be small. Manage expectations regarding pour sizes for tastings. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 English-Speaking Staff Available

Great news for international visitors! Many reviewers mention the availability of English-speaking staff, making your visit smooth and enjoyable. Reddit

⬆️ Tasting Room is Upstairs

Be aware the tasting room is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. Plan accordingly if mobility is a concern. Reddit

🍷 Koshu & Chardonnay Standouts

Don't miss trying their Koshu and Chardonnay wines, both highly praised for their excellent taste and pairing potential. Reddit

💰 Tasting Portions Can Vary

Some visitors have noted that tasting portions can be small. Manage expectations regarding pour sizes for tastings. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(197 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Grace Winery is praised for its welcoming staff and the quality of its Koshu and Chardonnay wines, offering a pleasant tasting experience with scenic views. However, some visitors have reported issues with inconsistent pour sizes during tastings and occasional unhelpful staff interactions, leading to disappointment.

"The team are super lovely and welcoming. They have English speaking stuff which made the visit all the more seamless. The view from the second floor tasting room is lovely. The decor and winery design is European-esque with flavours of Japan. Can’t recommend enough!"

Jane

"This is my favorite Japanese wine right now. I tried both their Koshu and Chardonnay and both were very nice.
I tried the Koshu with Japanese Kaiseki meals in Kyoto and the Chardonnay with French food in Tokyo this month.
I became a fan of Grace Wine.
Next time I’m in Japan, I’d like to visit the winery if possible."

Y Richter

"Friendly and very helpful staff. Wonderful wines. Note that tasting room is on 2nd floor up a flight of stairs."

Dennis Rose

What People Like

Friendly and welcoming staff
Excellent Koshu wines
Lovely tasting room views

What People Dislike

Inconsistent tasting portions
Occasional rude staff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Grace Winery is located in the Yamanashi Prefecture. The most common way to reach it is by taking the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo Station to Nirasaki Station, which takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. From Nirasaki Station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the winery. Some visitors opt for a rental car for more flexibility in exploring the region. Reddit

Yes, Grace Winery is accessible by public transport. After arriving at Nirasaki Station via train, local buses or taxis are available to take you to the winery. It's advisable to check bus schedules in advance as they may be infrequent. Reddit

Driving is a convenient option if you are comfortable navigating Japanese roads. There is typically parking available at the winery. Renting a car can offer more freedom to explore other wineries in the Yamanashi region. Reddit

For visiting multiple wineries in Yamanashi, a rental car offers the most convenience. Alternatively, you can use a combination of trains, local buses, and taxis, but this requires more planning and can be time-consuming. Some organized wine tours also operate in the region. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated shuttle service directly from major cities, local buses operate from Nirasaki Station. It's best to check the latest public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance, especially if you require English-speaking staff or are visiting during peak times. This ensures your spot and a smoother experience. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but typically the winery and its shop are open during daytime hours. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current operating hours before your visit. Reddit

Tasting fees can vary depending on the selection and number of wines offered. Some reviews mention prices around 2500 JPY per glass for tasting, but it's advisable to confirm current pricing upon arrival or when booking. Reddit

Information on vineyard tours is not consistently mentioned. It's best to inquire directly with Grace Winery when booking your tasting to see if any vineyard tours are available or can be arranged. Reddit

Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the winery shop. However, wine tastings and any special experiences will incur separate charges. Reddit

🍽️ 🍷 Wine & Dining

Grace Winery is particularly renowned for its wines made from the Koshu grape, Japan's indigenous white variety. They also produce excellent Chardonnay and other varietals. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase a variety of wines directly from the winery's shop. It's a great opportunity to take home some of your favorite Japanese wines. Reddit

The winery primarily focuses on wine. While they may offer small snacks or pairings, it's not a full-service restaurant. It's recommended to have a meal before or after your visit, or check if they offer any specific food pairings. Reddit

Koshu wine, with its delicate citrus and mineral notes, pairs beautifully with Japanese cuisine such as sushi, sashimi, and light seafood dishes. It can also complement poultry and vegetable-based meals. Reddit

There are dining options in the nearby town of Nirasaki. It's advisable to research local restaurants in advance, especially if you plan to dine after your winery visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The second-floor tasting room offers lovely views, blending European and Japanese design elements. The winery grounds themselves, with their vineyards and architecture, also provide picturesque backdrops for photos. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, including the tasting room, but it's always polite to be mindful of other guests and staff. Avoid intrusive photography during tastings. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for vineyard shots. Midday can be bright, but the interior of the tasting room is often well-lit. Reddit

Specific restrictions on drone photography are not widely mentioned. However, it's always best practice to check with the winery directly and adhere to any local regulations regarding drone usage. Reddit

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, would be useful for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the vineyard vistas, and a prime lens can be useful for low-light interior shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Grace Winery is primarily an adult-focused wine destination, families can still enjoy a visit. The scenic grounds offer space for children to explore, and the unique architecture of the winery can be visually interesting. However, it's important to note that the tasting room is on the second floor and accessible by stairs, which might be a consideration with very young children or strollers. Reddit

It's advisable to manage children's expectations regarding the tasting experience. Consider bringing activities or snacks for them, and focus on the visual aspects of the winery and the beautiful surroundings. Inquiring about any family-friendly amenities or viewing areas when booking is also a good idea.

🍷 Wine Connoisseurs

For serious wine lovers, Grace Winery offers a chance to delve into the nuances of Japanese viticulture, particularly with their Koshu wines. The opportunity to taste wines from a family-owned estate with a long history provides a unique perspective on Japan's wine evolution. Reddit

Engage with the knowledgeable staff to learn about the winemaking process and the specific terroir that influences their wines. Comparing their Koshu with other Japanese producers or even international white wines can be a rewarding experience. Don't hesitate to purchase bottles directly from the winery to continue your exploration at home.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Grace Winery presents a charming blend of rustic winery aesthetics and Japanese scenic beauty, making it a delightful spot for photographers. The second-floor tasting room, with its views and tasteful decor, offers excellent opportunities for interior shots. Reddit

Capture the vineyard landscapes, the winery's architecture, and the details of the tasting experience. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day can create dramatic and beautiful images. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the winery's operations while capturing your shots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Koshu Grapes

Grace Winery is a proud custodian of Japan's indigenous Koshu grape, a varietal with a history stretching back over a thousand years. Originally cultivated for table grapes, Koshu was transformed into wine in the mid-19th century. Its unique characteristics include thin skins, which contribute to its delicate color and aroma, and a natural resistance to disease. The grape thrives in the Yamanashi region's climate, producing wines that are typically light-bodied, crisp, and aromatic, with notes of citrus, green apple, and a subtle minerality. Reddit

Visiting Grace Winery offers a direct opportunity to taste the evolution of Koshu wine. The winery's dedication to this grape showcases its potential on the international stage. Many visitors are surprised by the complexity and elegance of Koshu wines, which can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of cuisines. The experience provides a deeper appreciation for Japan's contribution to the global wine landscape. Reddit

A Blend of Japanese and European Aesthetics

The architecture and ambiance of Grace Winery are a significant part of its appeal. The winery's design artfully blends European-inspired winery aesthetics with subtle Japanese influences, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. This fusion is particularly evident in the tasting room, which offers stunning views and a sophisticated setting for sampling their wines. Reddit

Reviewers often highlight the 'European-esque' feel combined with Japanese flavors, describing the decor as charming and the overall design as tasteful. This thoughtful design contributes to a memorable visitor experience, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the wines. The visual appeal, coupled with the quality of the wine, makes Grace Winery a destination that engages multiple senses. Reddit

Navigating the Japanese Wine Scene

Japan's wine industry, though relatively young compared to traditional wine-producing nations, is rapidly gaining recognition. The Yamanashi Prefecture, where Grace Winery is located, is considered the birthplace of Japanese wine. The region boasts a number of wineries, each contributing to the diversity and quality of Japanese wine production. Reddit

For wine enthusiasts, exploring Japanese wineries like Grace offers a chance to discover unique varietals and winemaking styles. The commitment of producers to quality and innovation is evident, with many focusing on both indigenous grapes like Koshu and international varietals. Engaging with the Japanese wine scene provides a fascinating insight into a burgeoning industry and the passion of its vintners. Reddit

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