It is not often that one comes across a Japanese Cabernet Franc. This varietal is closely identified with the Middle Loire Valley, especially places like Chinon AOC, and Bordeaux, where it is often a blending partner with the more muscular Cabernet Sauvignon, but in this offering by Votano Wine one can see that in the hands of a skillful vintner, which is what Votano obviously has, the potential for making Nagano Prefecture a go-to-place for Cabernet Franc is significant.
We received this bottle as a gift, and what a wonderful present it turned out to be. In this wine, there is an interplay between subtly herbaceous notes and those of black fruit of the blueberry and cassis varieties. A hint of wet stones is present, as well. On the palate the tannins are soft and well integrated. Medium acidity and medium alcohol—13% ABV—lead to a medium (+) finish. We paired this one with, of all things, dried squid, which was the only snack readily available, and it worked!
Votano Wine is located in Shiojiri City. If you choose to get there by choo-choo, you will be pleasantly surprised by Shiojiri Station, because they let it all hang out there. No, it’s not like the people on the platform are ultra-casual saggy-pants types: it is because the station doubles as a vineyard! Other stations may have pigeon spikes, but this one has grapes, grapes that are used for winemaking. Niagara and Merlot are currently being grown on the viticultural platforms, 2 and 3, respectively. The station has enjoyed its unique dual status since 1988.
Drinking Japan 