Many have tried Koshu white wine, and even more are familiar with cloudy sake (nigori). But what exactly is Koshu Nigori wine? Most wines undergo filtration to separate the spent yeast and solids, halting further chemical reactions and improving wine stability. However, some winemakers believe filtration diminishes a wine’s unique, robust flavors. That’s why more unfiltered wines are appearing in the market.

This “Koshu Nigori” is an unfiltered Koshu white wine, designed to amplify the signature character of Japan’s native Koshu grape.

Crafted by Shiozaki Winery in Yamanashi Prefecture, it uses 2023-harvest Koshu grapes and employs a no-filtration approach. While technically unfiltered, the winemaker lets the wine settle in tanks, using gravity to allow solids to sink before transferring only the clear wine to another tank—so the finished wine remains bright and clear.

Because unfiltered wines are less stable, the winery recommends enjoying it by the end of April for the most vibrant, fruity aromas. Good things never last long—so now’s your chance to taste Koshu at its freshest.

Pour a glass: you’ll be greeted with fresh, fruity aromas reminiscent of pear and peach, almost like fruit wine—truly inviting. The palate is tight and vibrant, with layers of grapefruit, a hint of yuzu, and even pineapple. Acidity is moderate to low, alcohol is subtle, and the freshness is off the charts. It’s unexpectedly delicious; easy to finish a bottle before your meal is done.

Never found a Japanese white wine you loved? Want to taste Koshu in its freshest, most lively form? Give this unfiltered “Nigori” Koshu a try—it may change your mind.