Japanese connoisseurs have enjoyed imported wine for years, but some admirers are now focusing their attention on domestic varieties.
While wines imported from France and other countries are still popular, wines produced in Japan have gained attention. Some top hotels are stocking them along with imports and department stores have sections dedicated to domestic wines.
Suntory Holdings Ltd., a major producer of whiskey, beer and soft drinks, is striving to upgrade the quality of its wines this year, the 100th anniversary of its winery in Yamanashi Prefecture.