TAKAHIRO WINE - Cheek

Cheek 2023 is a lively, unfiltered orange wine made from Delaware grapes grown in Yamagata and vinified at Fattoria AL FIORE in by emerging winemaker Takahiro Suzuki. With its playful, natural energy and bright acidity, this dry, light-bodied wine perfectly reflects Suzuki’s youthful spirit and his vision to bring new life to his home region of Ibaraki through wine. 

Tasting Notes

Funky and expressive, with pronounced aromas of flint, Japanese mandarin, lily, and pineapple. The palate is zesty and vibrant, showing notes of grapefruit and crisp, refreshing acidity. Enjoy its evolution over time - start chilled, then let it warm slightly to reveal increasing fruitiness and depth across the first few days after opening. 

Winemaking

Crafted from Delaware grapes grown by Mr. Saito in Takahata, Yamagata. The 2023 season brought little rainfall and abundant sunshine, producing a healthy crop with high sugar and lower acidity. Grapes were harvested, destemmed, and crushed, then left on the skins for five days before pressing. The wine aged for two months in old oak barrels and was bottled without filtration, sulphites, or additives. 

Food Pairing

Simmered chicken and shiitake mushrooms, Agedashi Tofu, simmered aubergine and okra in dashi broth, oden, grilled vegetables, or hummus.