Japan develops ‘database’ of domestic wines

Japanese restaurant guide, Gurunavi has started to develop a list of domestic-made wine using local Japanese grapes, in partnership with the Japan Wineries Association.

Owned by Suntory, Tomi No Oka is a premium Japanese winery based in Yamanashi Prefecture

As reported by The Japan News, it is hoped that the database will boost sales for local restaurants and bars in different prefectures who will use the listing to increase their own wine offerings, with plans afoot to roll out the list in February next year.

The Japan Wineries Association has reportedly been in touch with 133 domestic wineries to submit their applications to Guranavi who will create the list from the information regarding where the grapes are grown, which varieties are used, vintage reports and wine styles.

Earlier this year, Euromonitor reported that the drinking age population in Japan had shrunk due to ageing coupled with low birth rates which had affected alcohol sales, though consumers were becoming more selective in their buying which included domestic wines and whiskies.

Suntory Wine International currently leads the domestic and export market with a 7% volume share, and last year merged its sales division with sister company, Suntory Liquors in order to strengthen their alcoholic beverage portfolio.