Wine Atlas

Nagano

GI Nagano, granted in 2021, encompasses wine production in Nagano Prefecture in Japan's mountainous central highlands. Vineyards at 600-800 meters elevation benefit from significant diurnal temperature variation and lower humidity than coastal regions. Merlot has emerged as the leading red variety, producing structured wines that have drawn comparisons to cool-climate Bordeaux styles. The Kikyogahara plateau and Chikumagawa river valley are notable sub-areas.

Structured Bordeaux-style reds; crisp high-altitude whites