This highly requested social event finally became a reality. Alongside the gracious hospitality of our general manager and manager, guests also connected with one another—making for lively and engaging conversation.

The arrival of a true legend—and a driving force behind the Chikuma River Wine Valley—was met with cheers from the audience. A rare and compelling conversation revealed the guiding conviction of Tamamura—who has long been involved in the development of the Chikuma River Wine Valley— that "Nagano wines should not travel too far," as well as the deep bond he shares with his protégé, winery owner Atsuto Narusawa.

We were honored to welcome Daisuke Shoji, brand ambassador for the prestigious Riedel, who demonstrated—clearly and engagingly—how different glasses transform aroma and flavor, using a full-bodied, sensory approach. Even a fine wine can taste surprisingly harsh when poured into a plastic cup—the liquid spreads abruptly across the palate, intensifying acidity and astringency. This almost experimental demonstration drew audible surprise, with guests remarking that they had "discovered how wine is meant to be enjoyed."

This long-awaited dinner was a collaboration between Corporate Executive Chef Kazuhiko Shimoi and Executive Chef Sommelier Yoshiaki Ichimura. To help guests fully appreciate each wine’s unique character, all wines were served in Riedel glassware, creating a harmonious union of cuisine, wine, and glass. Alongside Atsuto Narusawa and Daisuke Shoji, we were joined by Shinichi Koyama, advisor to the Chikumagawa Wine Academy Club, and Akira Shimada of Manns Wines Komoro Winery, for a convivial session of dining and conversation celebrating the appeal of wine.

The following day, after a leisurely morning enjoying the hot springs and some shopping, guests made their way to Château Mercian Mariko Winery—ranked No. 46 in WORLD’S BEST VINEYARDS 2025 and the only winery in Japan to achieve this honor for six consecutive years. Mitsuhiro Anzo, who served as the model for the film "Signature: Turning Japan into a World-Class Wine Region," gave a detailed tour of the process from cultivation to winemaking, sharing anecdotes from his time in Bordeaux, France. This lighthearted special tour sparked a constant stream of questions. After the rain, a rainbow appeared, and as they gazed at majestic Mount Asama, our guests set off to journey home with smiles on their faces.