The 2012 Iwadarehara Merlot expression by Suntory comes from the company’s Shiojiri winery in Nagano, as part of the world-renowned wine range by the drinks giant. This vintage won a Gold award at the annual Japan Wine Competition. Light, smooth, and exceptionally fruity, this is wonderful wine aged in French oak barrels. Notes of blueberries, rich condensed fruit, and plums are evident throughout, with hints of oak joining in for a medium finish.