Château Mercian
Ensemble AiAkane Nagano Merlot Blend
Japan
My first Japanese Red! Blend of Merlot and Muscat Bailey A (A Red Japanese hybrid grape). Interesting ruby color with garnet and purple highlights and a slight brick rim. Aromas of red and black fruit and purple flowers. Flavors of red/black cherries, raspberries, strawberries, cola, and black licorice. Slight hint of vanilla on the medium finish. Low (but pleasant) acidity and light on tannins and structure. Well polished texture and quite delicate. A light bodied and chill-able refreshing red. Not overly complex. I found myself continuously reaching for the bottle. Very unique. Thank you so much for sharing this wine, John P!
My first Japanese Red! Blend of Merlot and Muscat Bailey A (A Red Japanese hybrid grape). Interesting ruby color with garnet and purple highlights and a slight brick rim. Aromas of red and black fruit and purple flowers. Flavors of red/black cherries, raspberries, strawberries, cola, and black licorice. Slight hint of vanilla on the medium finish. Low (but pleasant) acidity and light on tannins and structure. Well polished texture and quite delicate. A light bodied and chill-able refreshing red. Not overly complex. I found myself continuously reaching for the bottle. Very unique. Thank you so much for sharing this wine, John P!
Apr 9th, 2026