Coco Farm & Winery "Koshu F.O.S." Tochigi, Japan 2023

FROM NIPPON NATURALS:

THE WINE: F.O.S. stands for “Fermented on Skins.” Since 2004, Coco Farm has fermented Koshu — Japan’s signature white grape, usually made into pale, light wine — together with its skins and seeds, red-wine style, to show off the variety’s naturally firm tannin and depth. The result is a deeply colored, richly aromatic orange wine with notes of dried citrus peel, dried apricot, and tea leaf, a distinctive grip of tannin, and a flavor profile that keeps shifting in the glass. It has real aging potential, developing well over a decade.

THE PRODUCER: Coco Farm & Winery was founded in 1958 in the Ashikaga mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, originated from the cultivation efforts of local junior high school students led by teacher Mr Noboru Kawada. The winery’s mission was to provide a platform for individuals with intellectual disabilities and others to showcase their abilities and vitality. In 1969, Kokoromi Gakuen, a school supporting adults with intellectual disabilities, was established nearby.

Despite initial challenges, including the inability to obtain a fruit wine production license, Coco Farm & Winery was officially established in 1980 by Mr. Kawada and supporters who shared his vision. With the granting of a production license in 1984, the winery began producing wine. Mr. Bruce Gutlove, a key figure in the winery’s history and current director, joined in 1989, bringing expertise from his work in California. The ethos of the winery revolves around a promise to prioritize quality regardless of who the winemaker is.

NOTE: This bottle is allocated and therefore stock is limited. Discounts do not apply to this product.