Kawasaki, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan

Nestled at the foot of the Zao mountain range in Kawasaki Town, Miyagi, Fattoria Al Fiore operates from a former school gymnasium. Founded in 2015 by Hirotaka and Reina Meguro, the old basketball court now houses rows of amphora filled with Koshu, Delaware and Muscat Bailey A, a quietly extraordinary setting for one of Japan's most compelling natural producers.

'Al Fiore', meaning 'single flower', takes its name from Hirotaka's former restaurant. The couple, supported by a small team, produce around 15,000 bottles annually. True to Japanese craft, each wine is made with precision and care. Grapes are scarce and treated with respect; every bottle is hand-numbered and dyed with persimmon. Working with both vinifera and labrusca varieties including Delaware, Steuben and Niagara, the wines are perfumed, delicate and well suited to Japanese cuisine. Made as naturally as possible, with no additives, fining or filtration, production is tiny and allocations are strictly limited.

The Rosato

This wine has a story worth telling. In 2017, FAF received gift-quality Steuben grapes from their mentor, Mr. Ono, and from that serendipitous moment, the Rosato was born. It remains the only rosé in their flagship series, and in seven years of winemaking, they have only been able to produce it three times. Each release is an event.

This vintage takes a slightly different approach, blending Labrusca and Vinifera varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Neo Muscat, into a rare and deeply personal expression. Perfumed, delicate and alive, it is the kind of wine that rewards patience and presence. We are fortunate to have it in Australia.