Takahata Winery

Takahata Winery is one of the leading wineries in the Tohoku region, located in Takahata Town, Higashiokitama District, Yamagata Prefecture. Takahata Town is a nature-rich area known as the “Land of Mahoroba,” and it is a renowned grape-producing region, boasting Japan’s highest production of Chardonnay and Delaware grapes. Since its establishment in 1990, the winery has worked closely with local farmers to produce high-quality wines that make the most of locally grown grapes and fruit.

Wine Production and Characteristics
At Takahata Winery, a variety of wines are made mainly from Chardonnay and Delaware grapes carefully cultivated at its own vineyards and by contracted local farmers, as well as from Yamagata specialties such as cherries, La France pears, and peaches.
The lineup includes many award-winning labels recognized in domestic and international competitions, including the popular No. 1 brand, “Mahoroba no Kifujin” (The Lady of Mahoroba), and its quality is highly regarded as being on par with renowned wine regions around the world.

Winery Facilities and How to Enjoy Them
When you enter the grounds, the first thing that spreads out before you is a beautiful vineyard. Inside the facility, visitors can tour part of the wine production process, the storage tank yard, and the underground cellar.
The attached “Winery Shop” offers exclusive wines available only here, as well as souvenirs featuring local ingredients. There is also a tasting corner where you can sample four to five kinds of wine at any time. Another attraction is that you can choose a wine that suits your taste while receiving advice from staff with sommelier qualifications.

At “Gozzonare Takahata” on the premises, visitors can enjoy light meals along with glass wine, coffee, and soft drinks. In particular, the popular “white wine soft serve,” a favorite since the winery’s early days, is well received by visitors. Pizza and collaborative menu items featuring local ingredients are also available, making it easy for even those who do not usually drink wine to enjoy the experience.

Events and Tourist Appeal
Takahata Winery hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the spring Winery Festival and the autumn Harvest Festival. Each event draws many wine lovers and food enthusiasts, filling the entire area with a festive atmosphere.

The nearest station is Takahata Station, one stop on the local line from Akayu Station, which serves as a stop on the JR Yamagata Shinkansen. Takahata Station also has a hot spring facility, making it a convenient base for sightseeing. Since the town is dotted with cultural and historical landmarks, visitors can fully enjoy the area’s attractions together with its wine.

Background and Philosophy
Takahata Winery was born from the town’s efforts to promote Takahata as a “wine village” nationwide, building on a grape-growing history that has continued for more than 100 years. From the beginning, it has pursued a 100-year vision: “to create high-quality wines from ingredients produced in Takahata Town that can stand alongside the world’s famous wine regions,” continuously honing its skills and techniques.

As one public relations representative has said, the winery’s core philosophy is supported by its desire for people to learn about Takahata through wine, and by its commitment to growing alongside local farmers. In every sense, Takahata Winery’s wines can be said to be bottles filled with the spirit of local love.

Set against the backdrop of Takahata Town’s blessed natural environment and history in Yamagata Prefecture, Takahata Winery offers high-quality wines made from grapes and fruits grown together with local farmers. With tastings, limited-edition products, and events, it is a place where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of experiences. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or a traveler, it is an appealing destination. Why not enjoy fine wine casually while feeling the nature and warmth of the local community in Takahata, the “Land of Mahoroba”?