Shizuoka Onkochishin Monogatari Chapter 2: Pairing Shizen Sparkling Koshu with Fujiyama Prosciutto
"Shizuoka Onkochishin Monogatari" is our attempt to introduce you to the hidden charm and pride of this region's cuisine through an "encounter."
Starting April 4st, we will be picking out some great wines and prosciutto (ham) from the foot of Mount Fuji.
Fujisan Winery started this project in 2003 with the goals of reviving the endangered Koshu grape variety, supporting Japan's agriculture and wine industries through winemaking, and increasing the number of young people working in the industry.
In 2004, they completed a 100% Koshu wine with the desire to create a wine that would be accepted worldwide. Robert Parker Jr. of Wine Advocate magazine praised it highly, saying, "It's the first time I've ever tasted such a pure and beautiful Japanese wine." Since then, it has been featured in many overseas media outlets, and is currently served in three-star Michelin restaurants.
The hotel's choice, "Shizen Sparkling Koshu," is of course made from 100% Koshu grapes and carefully crafted using the same traditional methods as champagne, boasting an elegant and refined taste.
Superb acidity, rich flavor, exciting taste, and a light finish...the tasting notes by experts are filled with praise, and of course Chef Sommelier Fujie also gives it his stamp of approval.
■ Fujisan Winery Shizen Sparkling Koshu
Glass ¥1,900 Bottle ¥15,000 (tax included)
Another main character in the story is the Fujiyama Prosciutto from Watanabe Ham Factory in Gotemba City.
The owner, who works alone making ham with the spirit of an artisan and desire to "make only delicious things," prepares Fujinosuso pork from Gotemba during the harsh winter, when it is cold and dry due to the influence of Mount Fuji, and then exposes it to the humid summer winds from Suruga Bay, allowing it to mature slowly for a period of one and a half years.
As a result, it contains more of the umami component glutamic acid than Spanish or Italian prosciutto, and it has a powerful flavor that completely changes your perception of what meat should taste like. We fell in love with it.
＞Watanabe Ham Factory [External site]
There are new discoveries to be made in familiar shapes.
These exquisite dishes, perfect for toasting to the beginning of a new era, will create new memories in your dining experience.
