Francois Dumas, a pioneer in introducing authentic biodynamic and natural wines in Japan through “LE VIN NATURE,” started producing wine in collaboration with Grape Republic in Yamagata in 2019 and 2020.
Grape Republic was founded by restaurateur and sommelier Kazuomi Fujimaki in 2015 who up and moved from Tokyo to the village of Shinden in Yamagata. With no previous experience in winemaking – he set three simple rules for himself: The cultivation must be organic, the wines must be made without sulphur and other additives, and they should preferably have a touch of amphora storage. The goal was to make live and clear Japanese wines in free style using the grapes grown in Yamagata’s orchards throughout the 20th century.
Current state sees Haruyuki Yano as the face of Grape Republic today with New Zealand’s own Alex Craighead / Kindeli Wines involved as a partner and mentor.
Pairs well with melon wrapped in prosciutto and classic steak tartare