Fruity koshu keeps Japanese wineries in high spirits

Glasses of wine made from 'koshu' grapes, a uniquely Japanese variety known for its fresh and fruity taste in the family vineyards, are seen at a wine tasting seminar in Tokyo on Jan 19, 2015. Photos: REUTERS

Its charm lies in a special clarity, purity and relatively low alcohol content that overseas wines don't have.

Making wine comes naturally to Ayana Misawa, having spent her childhood in vineyards watching her father and grandfather nurture cherished "koshu" grapes, a unique Japanese variety known for its fresh and fruity overtones.