Katsunuma Jozo Aruga Branca “Clareza” Koshu 2022
Short Summary:A crisp, mineral‑driven Koshu from Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, with vibrant citrus, green apple and saline notes, bright acidity and a dry, refreshing finish — perfect with sushi, sashimi, and light Asian cuisine.
About this wine
Katsunuma Jozo Aruga Branca “Clareza” Koshu 2022 is a small‑batch, minimal‑intervention white wine from Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, crafted by Katsunuma Jozo Winery, one of Japan’s foremost producers of indigenous Koshu wine. Made from 100% Koshu grapes grown locally, this wine focuses on purity, freshness and a sense of place.
Tasting notes
Light‑ to medium‑bodied with aromas of meyer lemon, grapefruit, tart green apple and delicate white flowers, the palate is crisp and clean with bright acidity, fine mineral tension and a soft but dry finish that keeps the wine refreshing and food‑friendly.
Style & winemaking
Fermented in stainless steel for approximately two weeks and aged on lees in ceramic‑lined tanks for about six months, this wine remains unoaked and authentic, highlighting Koshu’s natural citrus and saline character and the cool‑climate soils of Yamanashi.
Food pairing
Pairs beautifully with:
Sushi and sashimi
Light seafood and shellfish
Dashi broths and umami‑rich Japanese dishes
Citrus‑dressed salads and grilled vegetables
Producer & region
Crafted by Katsunuma Jozo Winery, established in 1937 and based in Katsunuma, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, this producer specialises in Koshu — Japan’s indigenous white grape variety — and is known for expressive, terroir‑driven wines that elegantly complement Japanese cuisine.
Shipping & storage
Store in a cool, dark place, ideally at 8–12 °C. Best enjoyed within 1–3 years to preserve its fresh acidity, delicate aromatics and vibrant texture.
FAQs
Q: What is the grape variety?A: Koshu — an indigenous Japanese white grape variety.
Q: Should this wine be chilled?A: Yes — serve chilled at 8–12 °C for optimal freshness and aromatic clarity.
Q: What foods pair best with this wine?A: Sushi, sashimi, umami‑rich Japanese dishes, seafood and light salads.
Katsunuma Winery dates back to 1937 and have dedicated themselves to Koshu wines; in fact, every one of their white wines are made with Koshu grapes. They could be called the Koshu Whisperer: they really know how to work with Koshu grapes. Their single-minded passion for Koshu wines have attracted national and international acclaim and market, and today, their Koshu wines shine a beacon light on the future of Japanese Koshu wines. In fact, they are arguably the reason Koshu wines even have a global market today.