![Fuji apples in the vineyard's apple tree grove. Apples need to develop a bit more "mitsu" (honey) in the core before picking in October.](https://a1.cdn.japantravel.com/photo/25183-134881/320x240!/nagano-villa-d-est-winery-nagano-134881.jpg "Fuji apples in the vineyard's apple tree grove. Apples need to develop a bit more "mitsu" (honey) in the core before picking in October.")
Japan's wines have come a long ways since the only thing available on the shelves was Akadama Red, and Villa d'Est Winery is doing its bit to make inroads into Japan's wine culture. In my opinion, still not up to Napa, Sonoma, or Bordeaux standards, but drinkable. Although, at the price, one wouldn't want to drink it every day. That's one of the drawbacks of Japan's wines; production lots are small, which means prices are too high for the genral quality of the wines.
Still, it's a very pleasant place to visit. Have a stroll through the garden that overlooks the vineyard, which itself overlooks the distant mountain ranges. There's a decent cafe on the premises and parking is ample. Just remember, if you're driving, don't imbibe—Japan's drinking and driving laws apply to wine too!
Location:
6027, Kanou Tohmi-shi Nagano
Phone: 0268-63-7373
https://www.villadest.com/
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