Nakaizu Winery Launches Fourth 'COLLEKARA' Series Wine: Izu Chenin Blanc

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 5, 2026

Nakaizu Winery Château T.S. (Location: Izu, Shizuoka; CEO: Satoshi Ashikawa) is proud to announce the release of the fourth installment in its new concept wine series, 'COLLEKARA.' Through their work in Izu, the vintners frequently ask themselves, 'Are there grape varieties better suited to the Izu climate and terroir?' or 'Could we cultivate this specific variety here?' The 'COLLEKARA' (which means 'from now on') series was born from this spirit of inquiry and the dedication of vintners and winemakers to unlocking the potential of Izu grapes through multi-faceted brewing approaches. We invite you to taste, enjoy, and witness how these wines evolve and grow over the coming years.

'COLLEKARA' #4 Chenin Blanc 2025
Available June 6, 2026 (Saturday)

■ About #4 Chenin Blanc 2025
This release, the 'COLLEKARA' Series #4 Chenin Blanc 2025, is crafted solely from the 'Chenin Blanc' grape variety, currently undergoing experimental cultivation in our estate vineyards in Izu.

Chenin Blanc is a white grape variety native to the Loire Valley in France. Its most notable characteristic is its beautiful acidity that stands upright. With high inherent acidity and aromatics, it possesses great potential for long-term aging. It is a versatile wine capable of various styles—from dry to extremely sweet, and even sparkling—making it suitable for diverse scenes. Its aroma features notes of ripe apple, quince, honey, and white flowers, with nuances of nuts and dried fruits developing as it ages.

Notes of loquat, honey, sea breeze, and a sun-drenched finish.

■ Wine Characteristics
Appearance: Pale straw color. The nose opens with hints of white loquat and dried apricot, followed by a gentle spread of chamomile aromas. The 2025 vintage, having ripened well, shows settled acidity. On the palate, it is characterized by luscious honey notes and a smoky minerality reminiscent of struck flint. The finish is long and enjoyable.

■ Brewing Process
Whole-bunch pressed using a basket press. The yeast used imparts aromas of peach, nectarine, lemon zest, and florals, providing the wine with complexity and depth. Chaptalization was performed, and after primary fermentation, lactic acid bacteria were added to promote malolactic fermentation. The wine was then kept on the lees for approximately three months, adding fruitiness and body.

Product Name: Izu Chenin Blanc 2025
Grape Variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
Grape Origin: Nakaizu Shida Farm, Shimohiraiwa, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Content: 375ml (half bottle)
Alcohol Content: 12%
Release Date: June 6, 2026 (Saturday)
Price: 2,400 yen (excluding tax)

■ Experimental Varieties
We have high hopes for some of the grapes currently in experimental cultivation. Will we be able to successfully grow varieties suited to cooler climates in the warmer Izu region? Can we cultivate grapes without protective coverings despite Izu's high rainfall? We hope that in 10 years, some of these may become representative varieties that align perfectly with the Izu terroir. The 'COLLEKARA' series, driven by this 'you won't know until you try' spirit, embodies the future aspirations of our vintners and winemakers.

Due to extremely limited quantities, this product is available only at the Nakaizu Winery shop.
Planning for 'COLLEKARA' #5 is currently underway. We look forward to announcing what variety we will unveil next.

Since its opening in 2000, Nakaizu Winery Château T.S. has been dedicated to pursuing the essence of Izu-style winemaking. With our 10-hectare vineyards stretching across the magnificent foothills of Izu against the backdrop of Mount Fuji, our professional vintners and winemakers put their 'passionate hearts' into every bottle. Beyond the winery, our resort facilities—featuring restaurants, hotels, glamping, and horseback riding—offer an elegant time to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the vineyards at their best.