© Suntory Official Website

 

Japan's wine scene is captivating the world with its unique offerings. At the heart of Japan's winemaking legacy lies the Suntory Tomi no Oka Winery, a picturesque wine factory amidst the verdant hills of Yamanashi Prefecture.

 

Delving into the rich tapestry of Suntory's history reveals an enchanting journey deeply rooted in the world of wine. Unfolding in the year 1909, the roots of Suntory's viticulture were planted in the picturesque landscapes of Tomi no Oka, Yamanashi. This idyllic setting has become the home for several remarkable wines that have garnered international acclaim, notably the esteemed flagship, Tomi. The story of Suntory's wine legacy is a captivating testament to the fusion of tradition, craftsmanship, and a commitment to creating world-class vintages.

 

Take a look inside the winery and discover what makes world-class wine.

 

© Suntory Official Website

 

Suntory Tomi no Oka Winery presents a range of tours—each offering a distinct experience with different pricing options. The first and most popular one is the Koshu Vineyard Walking Tour which is only available during summer.

 

As the name suggests, the tour invites you to stroll into the meticulously kept vineyards overlooking a spectacular view. Suntory Tomi no Oka Winery truly embodies its name, "Tomi no Oka", which translates to “Beautiful hill winery to climb”. Resting amid mountains, this location is perfect for grape cultivation due to the limited rainfall, protected by the surrounding peaks. Moreover, the fields are scattered across south-facing slopes, ensuring abundant sunlight, while the elevated altitude maintains a cool climate.

 

The picturesque hill of vineyards at the winery showcases the versatility of Japanese winemaking with its wide array of grape varieties. It is home to the native Koshu grape, known for its fruity aroma with a sense of Japanese citrus and refreshing acidity, and to the international favorites like Chardonnay and Merlot. The winery's vineyards demonstrate the ability of Japan's terroirs to produce a wide range of wines that appeal to diverse palates.

 

The tour wraps up with a wine tasting experience from the highest spot in the winery—the observation deck. Here, you get to enjoy Tomi no Oka’s special wines while taking in the wonderful scenery from the top.

 

 

© Suntory Official Website

 

The FROM FARM Winery Tour combines both a tour of the vineyard and the wine aging warehouse, with an exclusive addition of premium wines not accessible in other tours.

 

Exclusively offered on weekends (Friday to Sunday) and holidays, this premium experience invites you to savor four types of high-quality wines, including the acclaimed "Noble Rot Wine," believed to be the outcome of the winery's miraculous cultivation and brewing techniques.

 

 

 

© Suntory Official Website

 

Transitioning from a sunlit stroll through the vineyards, the Wine Aging Tour grants you access to the dim-lit and sophisticated wine cellar.

 

The wine cellar consists of cave-like, cool rooms where the magical transformation from luscious grapes to exquisite wine happens. In this area, you’ll see neatly aligned wine barrels and special bottles carefully stored behind padlocked displays.

 

The tour concludes with another wine tasting in a separate room. This unique experience sets itself apart, ensuring no distractions to divert your senses from the pure enjoyment of the wine.

 

 

 

© Suntory Official Website

 

Exploring a winery isn't complete without taking home exquisite wines. Suntory Tomi no Oka Winery has an exceptionally sophisticated space with a solemn and historical ambiance. It has a museum-like setting that exhibits the passion and commitment of the winemakers through a gallery and video presentations.

 

Within the wine shop, guests can browse through a variety of wines offered by the winery alongside other souvenir items available for purchase. For those seeking a premium experience, their wine cellar presents an array of special wines to choose from, complemented by the opportunity to sample a glass at the tasting counter.

 

 

© Suntory Official Website

 

The synergy of abundant nature, expert craftsmanship, and a profound love for grapes defines Suntory Tomi no Oka Winery as a true "wine-making utopia." It offers an immersive journey into the essence of wine, deeply intertwined with the elements of farm, water, soil, and the passion of the people behind.

 

Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur, a casual wine drinker, or even a beginner in the world of wine, a visit to this winery promises a unique and unparalleled experience.