Chilean export wine makes its way into the country of sake

This is another good news for Chilean wine. In a country as far away as Japan where sake prevails over other liquors, Chilean wine is making its way and the Japanese choose to accompany their meals with a glass of wine.

The fall of alcohol consumption is a reality in the Asian country, where beer and national liquors – sake, shochu and chuhi- lose adherents every year. In this context, a report by the Japanese beverage manufacturer Kirin this year placed more than a third of the increase in wine consumption in the last decade, according to data from the 2016-2017 fiscal year.

Why does wine increase consumption in Japan?
In total, the Japanese drank 352,492 kiloliters of wine in 2016, 35.1% more than in 2016, when the figure stood at 228,645 kiloliters. The diversification of the diet, the changes in lifestyle and the strong development of the economy in the last half century are some of the factors that contribute to this growth.

In 2017, 39 Japanese companies were granted licenses to make wine, according to data from the National Tax Agency, demonstrating that consumer interest has also activated manufacturers, which produced 96,317 kiloliters in 2016. However, of the total sales only 30.7% corresponds to national production, with the majority of the wine consumed imported from other countries (69.3%).

Given the increased interest in wine, the Japanese government to create a standard for labeling, in order to control the place of origin of wines and avoid confusion on the part of buyers. The new regulation has already entered into force and distinguishes two wine categories on its label: import, domestic production or Japan.
It is a measure that seeks to protect local wines, distinguishing them from hybrids, and in turn encourage manufacturers not to mix their production with imported wine in bulk.

In Yamanashi, west of Tokyo, is the cradle of Japanese wine. In this region of vineyards Koshu is mainly made, a white wine grown from purely Japanese grapes. Koshu is an alternative for Japanese consumers reluctant to try foreign wine and has become a “very popular” option, especially among older people, as it believes it is a “safe” drink, more affordable and that adapts to your food . However, the wine made on Japanese soil “is not a cheap wine, because the labor and the land are very expensive”.

The arrival of Export Wines in Japan
European wines and those from Australia and America, such as Chile, are still the best sellers, for their good value for money. Among all of them, Chileans are the best sellers, since one of every three imported bottles arrives from there.

The free trade agreement signed between Japan and the European Union last July will eliminate tariffs for all liquors, including wine, thus reducing import and export costs between both regions. This will be a “great challenge” for the Japanese market, because the Japanese producers will have to compete with the popular Chilean or French wines, which they will take advantage of to promote themselves in Japan. Likewise, and although it is too early to determine its consequences, experts predict that this commercial agreement will further boost wine consumption in Japan.
Chilean wines enjoy an importance among Japanese consumers, who already warned that it is high quality wines and prices that can be accessed

Chilean wines, mainly Premium wines, are being recognized all over the world. A clear example of this is the Asian continent. Undoubtedly, high-end or premium Chilean wines are the most important in the international high class market. Chilean wines occupy an important place in this booming Asian market.
Learn about premium Chilean wines.

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