Sadoya's 'Liel Meino Chardonnay 2025' Wins Gold at Japan Wine Competition 2026

Sadoya Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture) is pleased to announce that 'Liel Meino Chardonnay 2025' has won a gold award in the 'European Varieties White' category at the Japan Wine Competition 2026.

This wine is made from Chardonnay grapes harvested at 'Sadoya Farm Meino,' located in Meino-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture.

Sadoya acquired the Meino vineyard in January 2024. This wine was produced from grapes harvested in 2025, the second year since acquisition.

The entire team involved in cultivation and winemaking is delighted that their efforts at the new estate vineyard have been recognized so early.

Product Overview

Product Name: Liel Meino Chardonnay 2025 Grape Variety: Chardonnay Grape Origin: Sadoya Farm Meino, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Harvest Year: 2025 Sales Status: Currently on sale Price: 4,950 JPY (tax included) Production Volume: 1,187 bottles

Product Page: https://sadoya-wine.com/fs/sadoya/Liel/gd368

Available at Sadoya Wine Boutique, Sadoya Online Shop, and authorized retailers. Due to limited production, please check availability with each retailer.

Background and Initiatives

Japanese wine is defined as wine made from domestically grown grapes and produced within Japan. In recent years, consumer interest has expanded beyond grape varieties to include the region and vineyard where the grapes were grown.

Since its founding in 1917, Sadoya has focused on cultivating grape varieties suited to Japan's climate and producing wines that pair well with meals.

To further develop these initiatives, Sadoya acquired Sadoya Farm Meino in 2024. At this farm, multiple European grape varieties are cultivated, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Pinot Noir.

This award confirms the potential of Meino as a wine-producing region and marks a significant milestone for Sadoya's integrated approach—from vineyard cultivation to winemaking—under its own management.

Winemaking process using Chardonnay harvested at Sadoya Farm Meino

Features

1. Chardonnay from Sadoya Farm Meino

The wine uses Chardonnay harvested at Sadoya's Meino Farm. The cultivation and winemaking teams shared information and monitored grape conditions throughout the winemaking process.

2. Wine from the Second Harvest After Vineyard Acquisition

Sadoya acquired Meino Farm in January 2024. 'Liel Meino Chardonnay 2025' is made from grapes harvested in the second year after acquisition.

Winning a gold award with wine produced during the early stages of vineyard management and cultivation is a great encouragement for future vineyard development.

3. The 'Liel' Series: Highlighting the Origin

'Liel' is a series that focuses on the region and vineyard where the grapes were grown.

By including the place name in the wine's title, Sadoya aims to help consumers learn about grape origins and spark interest in the land. 'Liel Meino Chardonnay 2025' was developed specifically to express the unique character of Chardonnay grown in Meino.

Sadoya Farm Meino with a view of the Southern Alps

Purchase and Usage Scenarios

Enjoy this wine, born from Meino-grown Chardonnay, during home meals or as a gift for someone special.

Additionally, Sadoya Winery is located about a 5-minute walk from Kofu Station North Exit. The premises include a 700-tsubo underground cellar, a wine boutique, the restaurant 'Le Roi d'Or,' and the wedding venue 'Sadoya Château de Provence.'

Beyond wine purchases, visitors can tour the underground cellar and enjoy wine with a meal. It is a place where visitors can experience the history and winemaking culture behind the wine in a real setting.

Sadoya's premises, home to a winery, restaurant, and wedding venue

Future Outlook

Sadoya views this award as a milestone in its journey.

Moving forward, the company will continue to refine its cultivation practices and winemaking techniques, carefully assessing the compatibility between Meino Farm's environment and grape varieties. Annual grape conditions will be recorded and reflected in wine quality.

Sadoya will also strengthen its group-wide collaboration, with all employees participating in harvest activities, to consistently deliver the charm of Meino-grown grapes through its products.

Company Overview

Sadoya Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1917. Operates a winery in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, with a 700-tsubo underground cellar. Also operates a restaurant and wedding venue, creating a space where people gather.

Address: 3-3-24 Kitaguchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture Phone Number: 055-251-3671

Sales Locations

Available at Sadoya Wine Boutique, Sadoya Online Shop, and authorized retailers.

Price: 4,950 JPY (tax included) Production Volume: 1,187 bottles Sales Status: Currently on sale

Product Details and Purchase: https://sadoya-wine.com/fs/sadoya/Liel/gd368

Please note that due to limited production, items may sell out. Check the latest inventory status with each sales location.

Official Website: https://sadoya.co.jp/winery/index.html Online Shop: https://sadoya-wine.com/

Underground Cellar Tour

Sadoya offers guided tours of its 700-tsubo underground cellar (timed, limited capacity, reservation required).

The tour includes visits to barrel storage rooms, a sake bottle storage area, and exhibition rooms inside storage tanks, introducing the history of Sadoya.

At the end of the tour, guests can enjoy a glass of recommended wine or grape juice.

Details and Reservations: https://sadoya.co.jp/winery/tour_info.html