The Continual Evolution of Japanese Wine: 'Kaizen' Initiatives at Suntory Wineries
In recent years, the quality of Japanese wine has improved rapidly, garnering attention from around the world. Among these, the initiatives at Suntory's 'Tomi no Oka Winery' and 'Shiojiri Winery' have become a major topic of discussion among experts.
It is often said that 'the taste of wine does not change significantly in a single year,' but this conventional wisdom does not apply to Japanese wineries. At Suntory's wineries, new technologies and cultivation methods are introduced every year, with 'kaizen' (continuous improvement) being repeated incessantly.
At these wineries, they devise ways to grow grapes in accordance with changes in climate and soil, and meticulously review their brewing processes. These steady efforts cause the flavor of Japanese wine to evolve every year, surprising consumers.
The improvement in the quality of Japanese wine is exciting news not only for enthusiasts within the country but also for wine fans overseas. Many people are looking forward to seeing what new challenges Japanese wineries will continue to take on in the future.