Wine

Shinshu Shiojiri Wine Base Local Wines & Japanese Cuisine

At Shinshu Shiojiri Wine Base, enjoy locally produced wines from Shiojiri and the surrounding region,
paired with Japanese cuisine prepared by the chef of Hotel Asahikan — in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Our Sommelier

Sommelier Kaori Takeda
Kaori Takeda DipWSET
Qualifications
  • WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits
  • WSET Level 3 Award in Sake
  • JSA Certified Wine Expert (Japan Sommelier Association)

* WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust), headquartered in London, is the world's largest wine and spirits education body. The Level 4 Diploma is its highest qualification, and the Level 3 Award in Sake is its highest sake-specific certification.

Born in Hyogo, Japan. After working across several industries — including aviation, hospitality, apparel, and consumer goods — both in Japan and abroad, she discovered wine in New Zealand and Australia. Drawn by its depth and its power to connect people, she pursued her studies and entered the wine industry in 2009.

After working at wine retailers and importers, she earned the Diploma — the highest qualification from the UK-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) — in 2020. Since going independent in 2022, she has worked across a wide range of fields centered on wine and other beverages, including planning, translation, interpretation, events, and education.

In summer 2024, she relocated from Kobe to Shiojiri when her former mentor founded a winery in Ono, Tatsuno Town. From spring 2026, she has been managing Shinshu Shiojiri Wine Base alongside her work at the winery.

Message

Guided by the belief that "wine should not be intimidating — it should be enjoyed freely," we aim to create a place where locals, travelers, beginners, and producers alike can gather naturally, beyond their roles.

For those who want to delve deeper into wine, we are happy to share its many facets in detail. For those who simply wish to enjoy without the technical talk, we will suggest a glass that matches your taste.

Japanese wine has gained increasing international recognition in recent years, and Nagano wines in particular are valued for their quality and diversity. We hope guests from around the world will discover the charm of this unique wine region through both wine and food.

Kaori Takeda DipWSET

Reservations & Inquiries

For reservations and inquiries from overseas guests,
please feel free to contact us by phone.