Château Mercian Mariko Winery
Nagano, Japan
- No.46 The World's 50 Best Vineyards 2025
A bench beneath the giant cherry tree of Ippongi Park provides both a dose of serenity and views of the Mariko Winery, owned by Japan's first private wine company and named after the son of a sixth‑century emperor. Vistas from the building itself span 360 degrees, with mountains in the distance (including two volcanoes) and 30 hectares of vineyards below, which you'll get to roam on a 'Premium Tour'. While the gravity‑flow winery transports the liquid via rails running overhead, a window looks onto the fermentation tanks below, with allegorical artwork adorning the walls. The Tasting Counter serves the full range (including native Japanese grape varieties) alongside local food.
Key Information
- Opening times: Please see website
- Signature wine: Château Mercian Mariko Omnis
- Wines produced: Red, Rosé, White
- Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah
- Hidden gems: The Ippongi Park
- Time from airport: 3 hours 30 mins from Haneda Airport (Tokyo)
- Visit Château Mercian Mariko Winery's website
Location
146-2 Nagase, Ueda, Nagano, Nagano Prefecture, 386-0407
