Located in the picturesque landscape of a sun-soaked hill beneath Yamagata’s Zao Mountain Range and near Kaminoyama Hot Spring Village, Takeda Winery has flourished since its inception in 1920. Guided by the principle that “Good wine comes from good grapes,” they dedicated two decades to meticulously preparing the soil and cultivating grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay, typically reserved for high-end European wines. Their 15-hectare farm employs natural farming practices with minimal pesticides and no chemical fertilizers.

Takeda Winery’s commitment to excellence extends throughout the winemaking process, from hand-picked harvests to precise brewing, aging in French oak barrels, bottling, and shipping. Their acclaimed Domaine Takeda series, including Chateau Takeda (red), Chateau Takeda (white), and Domaine Takeda [Cuvee] Yoshiko, a sparkling wine produced using the Champagne method, has garnered praise from wine enthusiasts and sommeliers nationwide. Additionally, their cherished Zao Star Wine, crafted from locally sourced Delaware and Muscat Berry A grapes with high sugar content, continues to delight wine aficionados, offering versatility when enjoyed chilled or at a slightly warmer temperature. Rooted in Yamagata’s unique climate, Takeda Winery’s wines are not just accompaniments to everyday home-cooked meals; they add sophistication to a range of stylish dining experiences.