I live in Tokyo, so this blog focuses mainly on wines available in Japan, although I also discuss wines I’ve picked up while traveling. But it’s not just about wine—it’s about how wine fits into my broader outlook on life and how it connects with other interests. If that sounds a little grandiose, maybe it is—but I see wine as one of the starting points for exploring wider concepts. If you’re intrigued by that idea, keep reading. If not, well, that’s fair too.
Before we go any further, it’s important to mention that, first and foremost, I’m an enthusiast. The wine qualification I mention later is secondary to my passion and approach. That said, I do believe that understanding wine can enhance your enjoyment of it, and studying—whether formally through programs like WSET or self-directed learning—is one way to get there. The same goes for film: taking the time to analyse and think critically about what you’re watching can deepen your appreciation. Not every wine or film demands this level of scrutiny, but for those that do, it’s worth the effort.
At the core of it all, I’m looking for experiences that evoke a feeling, whether it’s from a glass of wine, a movie, or a novel. That’s what draws me in. Sure, there are times when it’s enough to simply enjoy something casually, but even in those moments, wine offers opportunities to learn—about a new region, a different grape variety, or a unique producer. This continuous pursuit of knowledge is what drives me.
Another factor is time. Time is limited, and I believe in being selective about what I drink, watch, or read. With so many options, thoughtful choices allow me to focus on experiences that are enriching. When I choose a film, I’m often looking for more than just entertainment. Similarly, with novels, I tend to gravitate toward stories that not only captivate me but offer insights into the human condition or help me grow in some way.
The same goes for wine. I see it as more than just something to drink—it’s a way to deepen my understanding of history, geography, and the artistry of winemaking. By being selective, I can make sure that each glass contributes to my knowledge and helps me appreciate the world a little more. It’s about making the most of the time I have and filling it with experiences that are meaningful, educational, and valuable.
Of course, price comes into play too. Wine can range from a few dollars to thousands, and everything in between. The very cheapest wines often lack distinction or typicity (the “essence” of a varietal), and while I don’t drink them often, they’re important for understanding where wine “begins.” For me, wine becomes interesting when there’s a clear sense of distinction or typicity. These qualities are the foundation of learning, understanding, and feeling. In Japan, wines starting around 1,000-1,500 yen are often generally where wine “begins”. They often offer something interesting and can represent excellent value. While finding great wines below 1,000 Yen is rare, there are always exceptions, so I keep my eyes open.
More words here: Wine and Cinema Share a Remarkable Complexity
WSET Level 3
For what it’s worth, I completed the WSET Level 3 course some years ago with a pass grade of “Merit”. Pretty good I thought and more or less in line with every examination I have ever sat in my life. I jumped straight into Level 3 (skipping Level 1 and 2) since I felt I had already established a decent knowledge base. I guess the grade I received was proof that I was right more than not. On the other hand it could’ve meant I was pretty good at memorising stuff for an examination and I somehow fluked the tasting part. The reality is probably a little bit of both. I also received a little green WSET badge for my efforts, but I’m not quite sure what to do with it. For now it’s hanging out in a cupboard surrounded by a variety of wine glasses, a Riedel decanter that looks like a giant cock and balls, a few books, some copies of Sight and Sound and other miscellaneous stuff.
Scoring System
I wondered if I should have one or not. But those numbers all seem a bit redundant really. So, nah. You can probably figure out what I think is good, bad or something else.