Celebrate Autumn in Yoichi: A Wine and Local Cuisine Event at UNWIND HOTEL & BAR OTARU on September 27
Taste of Hokkaido Wine & Cuisine
UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru, nestled in Hokkaido’s increasingly recognized wine region, has been celebrating the unique flavors of the area through its “Taste of Hokkaido: UNWIND Otaru Wine & Cuisine” series since July 2021. This special edition, “Taste of Yoichi’s Terroir,” highlights the burgeoning wine scene in Yoichi Town, renowned for its ideal climate and natural beauty. Featuring sommelier Yuki Sanada, who brings deep local knowledge, this event offers a chance to savor wines from five standout wineries, each paired with thoughtfully crafted dishes in the historic setting of The Ball Otaru restaurant.
Taste of Hokkaido Wine & Cuisine Special Edition: Taste of Yoichi’s Terroir
This time, we’re shifting the spotlight to the emerging wine region of Yoichi Town, renowned for its growing global reputation and unique charm. We’re thrilled to present the “Taste of Yoichi’s Terroir” special edition, where you’ll get to experience the rich autumn flavors born from Yoichi’s ideal climate and natural features.
Guiding us through this journey is Yuki Sanada, a passionate sommelier deeply involved in Yoichi’s regional revitalization and director of “Wine, Tokidoki Buta.” With strong ties to local winemakers, Sanada will share captivating stories about the wines and the town itself. Whether you’re here to deepen your knowledge of Yoichi wines, indulge in tastings, or simply unwind with a glass in a laid-back atmosphere, this event is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of Yoichi’s terroir.
Wine List
For this event, Sanada has curated a selection of wines around the theme “Five Wineries from Yoichi Town to Watch.” Guests will have the chance to savor wines from esteemed producers like “Hirakawa Winery,” which has previously graced our events, and “Nishio Vineyard,” known for its exceptional craftsmanship. Additionally, “Domaine Mizuki Nakai,” Yoichi’s first farmer-operated winery, will be featured, along with newcomers like “Nitori Orchard” and “Arimax,” who will introduce their debut vintages. Each wine truly reflects the unique terroir of Yoichi, and with special guest speakers, you’ll gain deeper insights into the art of winemaking in this burgeoning region.
・Nitori Orchard N wine Chardonnay 2023
・Domaine Mizuki Nakai Noborinooka Kerner
・Hirakawa Winery Les Amities Rose
・Nishio Vineyard La Tradition Rose
・Arimax Snow Rover Rouge
Presenter: Yuki Sanada
Born in Kanagawa Prefecture, Sanada started his journey in the food and drink world with a part-time job at a seaside café in Shonan and Enoshima during his student days. He then explored various roles in Tokyo, from bartending and sommelier work at shot bars and wine bars to serving up soup curry and bistro fare. Leveraging his diverse experience, Sanada opened “Wine, Tokidoki Buta” on June 18 in Yoichi Town, Hokkaido—a charming spot where guests can enjoy great food and stay the night. Since April 2021, he’s been honing his winemaking skills at Hirakawa Winery as part of the Yoichi Town Regional Revitalization Cooperation team, with dreams of growing his own grapes and crafting his own wine.
Course Menu
We’re excited to present a special autumn course meal showcasing Yoichi’s bountiful harvest. Savor the natural sweetness of autumn vegetables and fruits from Yoichi, including the renowned Tenjo Buri, a fish celebrated for its “heavenly taste” in the fall, and Kitajima pork, a premium local variety. Pair these exquisite dishes with wines crafted from Yoichi’s top-quality grapes for a truly memorable dining experience. Come and delight in the flavors of autumn like never before!
【Course Menu｜Six-course meal featuring Yoichi ingredients】
Includes Yoichi bakery baguette
Amuse-Bouche
・Kuromatsunai Camembert Frit with Yoichi Nico Rosso Confit
・Yoichi Venison Campagne with Consommé Jelly
Appetizer/Seafood Plate
・Trio of Marinated Seafood from Yoichi
Appetizer/Meat Plate
・Yoichi Kitajima Wine Pork Sausage with Homemade Pickles and Two Kinds of Mustard
Fish Dish
・Yoichi Tenjo Buri Mi-cuit with Yoichi Müller-Thurgau White Wine Sauce
Meat Dish
・Yoichi Kitajima Wine Pork Loin Low-Temperature Roast with Nikka Whisky Apple Wine Sauce
Dessert
・Yoichi Pear with Blueberry Sauce, Poached in Yoichi Red Wine
*Please note that the menu may change depending on ingredient availability.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, September 27, 2024 （Doors Open: 18:30 Start: 19:00 End: 21:00）
Location: UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru, The Ball Otaru
Capacity: 22 people (first-come, first-served)
Price: 13,200 yen (tax included)
The Ball Otaru
THE BALL OTARU is where your special moments come to life. This stunning venue still boasts its original stained glass windows from over 90 years ago, paired with lighting that perfectly complements the soaring 3.7-meter-high ceilings. It’s a unique blend of classic charm and modern flair, making it the hotel’s standout space. Start your day with a high tea-style breakfast, and for lunch and dinner, indulge in a delightful French course meal that’s open to everyone. We take pride in using locally sourced ingredients from the Otaru area, so you can savor the distinct flavors of the region. Come experience a touch of the extraordinary in this beautifully historic setting!
UNWIND HOTEL & BAR OTARU
Originally built in 1931 as the “Old Etchuya Hotel,” Hokkaido’s first hotel exclusively for foreign guests, this historical building has served various roles over the years, including as an officer’s club during wartime and later as a U.S. military facility. Designated as a historic building by Otaru City and recognized as part of the “33 Modernization Industrial Heritage Sites” by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, the building was recently revitalized after years of closure. With a bold renovation that preserves its historical ambiance and architectural beauty, the boutique hotel now offers a modern experience with a unique sensibility that bridges the past and present. Our mission is to create a space that fosters organic interactions between the community and travelers, making it more than just a classic hotel. We invite you to experience this distinctive world.
UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru
Location: 1-8-25 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido
Access: Approximately 35 minutes by JR Hakodate Main Line from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station, then a 10-minute walk from Otaru Station to the hotel.