Volume 28

Vol. 28

Appearance order·19 winesPublished 19

  1. 1Pesquera Tinto Crianza 2001PublishedPesquera Tinto Crianza 2001Alejandro FernandezShizuku prepared a wine for ace striker Sho Honjo, who can't propose to his girlfriend Madoka, with the aroma of unripe fruit, juicy yet robust upon tasting.A passionate Spanish delightAlejandro Fernández's Pesquera Tinto Crianza is one of those Spanish reds that really stands out, you know? The 2001 vintage makes it particularly intriguing. It's crafted from Tempranillo grapes, basking under the Spanish sun, giving it a rich fruit profile and a robust body. This wine pops up in Volume 28 of 'Drops of God'. It's chosen by Shizuku for the ace striker Sho Honjo, who's struggling to propose to his girlfriend Madoka. The wine starts with an aroma of unripe fruit, but when you drink it, there's a surprising robustness—just like the complexities of Honjo's emotions. Shizuku's choice is right on the mark. In the glass, it shows a deep ruby color, and you can see its viscosity when you swirl it. The aroma is open, with notes of black cherry and dried plums. On the palate, it's got a strong structure, with velvety tannins. The acidity is firm, balancing beautifully with the fruit's sweetness. The finish is long, leaving a rich flavor lingering in your mouth.Read review
  2. 2Marchesato degli Aleramici Rosso di Montalcino 2008PublishedMarchesato degli Aleramici Rosso di Montalcino 2008Marchesato degli AleramiciHonma, upon his promotion, served a wine rarely available in Japan, with a spiciness different from Pinot Noir, soft tannins, and a unique refreshing acidity, like a May breeze over the plains.With the winds of TuscanyThe 2008 Rosso di Montalcino from Marchesato degli Aleramici is a tribute to the lush nature and tradition of Tuscany. Crafted from Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes, this wine embodies the region's unique charm. When you uncork this bottle, you can almost feel the warm Tuscan sun and the cool breeze that whispers through the vineyards. In Volume 28 of 'Drops of God,' this wine is served by Honma as a celebratory drink, chosen for its distinctive spiciness, soft and unfolding tannins, and refreshing acidity. It's described as a wine reminiscent of a May breeze sweeping across a meadow. The appearance shows a mature brick hue, with legs that cling to the glass. On the nose, ripe black cherries and dried herbs mingle with a subtle spiciness. On the palate, it offers a smooth texture, where a refreshing acidity dances harmoniously. The tannins are silky, providing a firm structure with a slightly long finish, offering a well-balanced profile. Decanting this wine will enhance its charm even further.Read review
  3. 3Brunello di Montalcino 1997PublishedBrunello di Montalcino 1997Castello BanfiAs a candidate for the wine sought by the blind pianist Otoha Hiyama, Honma suggested a wine that could be likened to the sound of an alto saxophone, like Sadao Watanabe's standard jazz.The allure of jazz on an alto saxophoneCastello Banfi, a prestigious name in Tuscany, offers up the Brunello di Montalcino, a wine that showcases the full potential of 100% Sangiovese. This 1997 vintage has undergone extended aging in the bottle, bringing out its depth and complexity. Castello Banfi is renowned for its quality, living up to the reputation of Tuscan wines and standing as a great representative of Italian wine. In the manga, it's the wine that Honma suggests as a candidate for the blind pianist Otoha Hiyama. She compares it to the sound of an alto saxophone, like the standard jazz played by Sadao Watanabe. It's a wine that has a certain smoothness and depth, much like a well-played jazz piece. Pouring it into the glass, you see a deep garnet color that's truly stunning. The aroma is open and inviting, with notes of black cherry, dried plum, and hints of black tea and dried herbs, a testament to its 29 years of aging, adding layers of complexity. On the palate, it has a mellow attack with smooth acidity. The tannins are velvety, offering a well-balanced taste overall. The finish is long, leaving you with a feeling of satisfaction, as if you've just listened to a great jazz performance. You should give it a try.Read review
  4. 4Brunello di Montalcino 2005PublishedBrunello di Montalcino 2005Tenuta di CollosorboThe second candidate wine for Hiyama is a more feminine and sweet Brunello than Banfi, reminiscent of the organ music played joyfully by the teacher who inspired her love for music as a child.A lush and feminine Italian redSo, this 2005 Brunello di Montalcino from Tenuta di Collosorbo is something special, you know? It hails from Tuscany, a region famous for its rich and structured Sangiovese-based wines. This wine, with its lengthy aging process, showcases a unique blend of power and elegance. Brunello is known for its robust yet delicate structure, and this vintage has garnered quite the attention. Let's open a bottle and see what magic unfolds. In the manga, it appears in volume 28 when Shinohara is searching for the perfect wine. This Brunello is noted as being more feminine and sweet compared to Banfi. It's reminiscent of a childhood music teacher playing a joyful organ tune in the sun. There's a touch of nostalgia in its charm. Pour it into a glass, and you'll notice its garnet hue with a brick-red rim, showing its age. The aroma is complex, with layers of tea, dried herbs, and sous-bois. On the palate, it starts with a soft fruitiness, followed by vibrant acidity. The tannins are velvety smooth, giving it a rounded mouthfeel. It's got a beautifully balanced structure with a long finish. I'd recommend decanting it before serving to fully appreciate its depth. This might just be the perfect choice for a memorable evening.Read review
  5. 5La Fornacina Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2004PublishedLa Fornacina Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2004La FornacinaAt Monopole, Fujieda served a wine that is rich and powerful yet somehow feminine and gentle.Where strength meets eleganceLa Fornacina Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2004 is a true expression of Tuscan pride and tradition. Made entirely from Sangiovese grapes, this wine benefits from the unique climate of Montalcino, allowing it to mature into a complex and layered experience. As a 'Riserva,' it undergoes longer aging, resulting in a wine that offers depth and sophistication. In Volume 28, Fujieda presents this wine at Monopole, and it's immediately captivating with its deep hue. Yet, when you taste it, you discover a feminine and gentle side beneath its apparent strength. It's a wine that balances power with a soft, inviting charm. The wine pours a deep garnet color, with pronounced viscosity that clings to the glass. On the nose, the aromas of ripe black cherry and dried plum unfold, complemented by hints of dried herbs and tea. This complexity is the heart of the wine. On the palate, it delivers a rich fruitiness with silky tannins that glide smoothly. The acidity is robust yet smooth, providing a backbone to the overall experience. The finish is long, with lingering notes of dried fruit and herbs. This wine is perfect for enjoying its elegant and profound flavor. It's best decanted and paired with hearty meat dishes to truly showcase its potential.Read review
  6. 6Massa Vecchia Poggio a Venti 1999PublishedMassa Vecchia Poggio a Venti 1999Massa VecchiaThe wine sought by the blind pianist Hiyama is Liszt's 'Liebesträume'.A timeless Tuscan treasureMassa Vecchia, known for its natural wines in Tuscany, offers something special with Poggio a Venti. The 1999 vintage has matured, bringing out a depth only time can create. While the specific grape varieties aren't detailed, this adds a touch of mystery to its allure, inviting you to explore its unique qualities. In the 28th volume of 'Drops of God,' this wine is the one sought by the blind pianist Hiyama. Paired with Liszt's 'Liebesträume,' it creates a moment where wine and music fuse seamlessly. This scene elevates the wine's mysterious charm, making it even more intriguing. The color is a deep ruby with hints of brick, and as you tilt the glass, the legs flow leisurely. The aroma is a blend of dried plums and blackberries, with mature notes of tea and dried herbs emerging. On the palate, it reveals a solid structure, yet the tannins are silky smooth, and the acidity is vibrant. The richness of the fruit unfolds in a mellow wave across your mouth. The finish is long, with layers of complexity lingering. It’s a wine to savor slowly, appreciating its depth. The ideal serving temperature is around 14–16°C, and using a larger glass will help unveil more of its charm.Read review
  7. 7Le Corti Chianti Classico 2002PublishedLe Corti Chianti Classico 2002Le Corti (Principe Corsini)Honma introduced a Chianti close to the wine Kido is looking for, with an excellent balance and the light, smooth acidity of Sangiovese, surprisingly affordable under 2000 yen.Experience the elegance of SangioveseLe Corti Chianti Classico is an Italian red wine from Tuscany, crafted by Principe Corsini. Made predominantly from Sangiovese, this wine embodies the tradition of the region while catering to modern tastes. The 2002 vintage, in particular, has matured gracefully, offering a deep and layered profile. In Volume 28 of 'Drops of God', this wine is introduced by Honma to Kido as a Chianti close to what he was searching for. With its remarkable balance and Sangiovese's inherent light and smooth acidity, it's hard to believe it comes at an affordable price. This makes it incredibly easy to drink, offering a delightful experience. Pouring into the glass, it reveals a deep ruby hue with a hint of brick, indicative of its 24-year aging. The aroma is open and inviting, with notes of dried fig, tea, and hints of violet. On the palate, it starts with a gentle fruitiness followed by lively acidity. The tannins are velvety, elegantly melding into the overall texture. The finish is moderately long, leaving a lingering impression. The wine's elegance and complexity highlight the best of Sangiovese, making it a must-try for any enthusiast.Read review
  8. 8Soave Classico Il Roccolo 2006PublishedSoave Classico Il Roccolo 2006Villa GirardiKido chose a wine to pair with white grape balsamic vinegar, whose fruity acidity perfectly marries with the light sweetness of the balsamic, creating a blissful moment like a woman in morning reverie.A wine that embraces the morning hazeSoave Classico Il Roccolo by Villa Girardi is a charming white wine from the Veneto region of Italy. This area is known for its unique soil and climate, which impart a distinctive character to the wines. Soave Classico primarily uses Garganega grapes, known for creating wines that are light yet complex in flavor. In Volume 28, Kido chooses this wine to pair with white grape balsamic vinegar. Its fruity acidity beautifully complements the light sweetness of the white balsamic, creating an experience akin to the bliss of a morning haze. It's a perfect reminder to consider the food pairing when selecting this wine. Pour a glass, and you'll notice its clear, pale straw color. The aromas are a delightful mix of apple and white peach, with a hint of herbs. On the palate, it starts with a soft sweetness that quickly gives way to a lively acidity, balancing the whole experience without being sharp—just smooth. The finish is slightly long, leaving a gentle mineral note that adds a nice accent when paired with food. Chill it to around 8–10°C and enjoy it with light appetizers or seafood for the best experience. You won't regret trying this one!Read review
  9. 9Barone Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico 2007PublishedBarone Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico 2007Barone RicasoliKido previously drank this wine with Fukamachi and sought it again; initially bitter and off-putting, but with time, its warmth and kindness become apparent.The deep embrace of SangioveseBarone Ricasoli's Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico is a red wine rooted in the heart of Tuscany, predominantly made from Sangiovese grapes. This wine embodies the fusion of tradition and innovation, respecting age-old winemaking techniques while embracing fresh perspectives. In volume 28, Kido reminisces about sharing this wine with Fumimachi before, and it's something he was searching for again. At first sip, the wine can be a bit bitter and stern, like it's pushing you away. But when you take the time to get to know it, you start to feel its hidden kindness and embrace. The 2007 vintage has a slightly brickish hue, hinting at its maturation. The aroma is rich with dried figs and plums, combined with the complexity of dried herbs and tea. On the palate, it's smooth with a strong, integrated acidity and velvety tannins that spread across the tongue. There's a long, pleasant finish that leaves you with a satisfying conclusion. Decanting this wine could enhance its enjoyment, allowing you to fully appreciate the depth of Sangiovese. It's a wine you want to take your time with, savoring every moment.Read review
  10. 10Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux 1985PublishedVosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux 1985Henri JayerChristopher Watkins drank this wine on a plane, which initially seemed indifferent but transformed sweetly, like a shy maiden turning back.A masterpiece of Pinot Noir art.This is the Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux 1985 by Henri Jayer. You know, it's one of those rare gems from Burgundy, made entirely from Pinot Noir, and it really embodies Jayer's winemaking philosophy. When you taste it, you can immediately understand why he was such an influential figure in the French wine world. In Volume 28 of 'Drops of God', Christopher Watkins savors this wine on a plane. Initially, his expression was a bit nonchalant, but then it slowly transformed into something sweeter, like a shy maiden glancing back. It leaves a lasting impact, just like the character described. Pour it into your glass, and you'll see a garnet hue typical of aged Pinot Noir, with a slightly orange rim. The aroma is something spectacular—notes of tea, forest floor, and dried herbs, all contributing to its complexity. On the palate, there's a lush fruitiness, balanced by robust yet supple acidity, and the tannins are silky, just melting away in your mouth. The finish is long, offering new discoveries with every sip. This is truly an elegant wine with a long finish. I'd recommend enjoying it straight from the glass without decanting to fully appreciate its nuance.Read review
  11. 11Barbera 2003PublishedBarbera 2003Desert WindWhile Chris was searching for the apostles, Shizuku, Issei, and Robert drank a wine reminiscent of playing poker with good friends over toasted bread, relaxed yet competitive.A hidden gem of WashingtonDesert Wind's Barbera 2003 is one of those wines that showcase the richness of Washington's nature and climate. While California often steals the spotlight, Washington has a lot to offer, too. This Barbera, in particular, harnesses the warm climate to bring out lush fruit flavors and a well-balanced acidity. This wine appears in Volume 28 of 'Drops of God' where Shizuku and his friends enjoy it while playing poker. It captures that feeling of being with good friends, relaxed yet with a hint of competition—like enjoying freshly toasted bread with a sense of camaraderie yet seriousness. Pouring it into the glass, you get a deep garnet hue with just a hint of brick red around the edges, a testament to its 23 years of bottle aging. The aroma is open, with notes of black cherry, dried plum, and a slight spicy nuance. On the palate, it spreads a mellow sweetness of fruit, with lively acidity and silky tannins. The overall taste is robust yet has an underlying smoothness. The finish is moderately long, with fruit and spice flavors that linger, making it an enjoyable experience to the last drop. Decanting it would deepen its complexity even more. It's a wine you'd want to savor on a calm evening with close friends.Read review
  12. 12Chambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses 2001PublishedChambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses 2001Georges RoumierChris brought the first apostle, a quiet spring suddenly appearing in a moss-covered primeval forest, where two violet butterflies intertwine.A whisper of Burgundy's jewelChambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses by Georges Roumier is one of those wines that makes you stop and appreciate the finer things in life. Made entirely from Pinot Noir, this 2001 vintage has aged beautifully, offering a glimpse into the elegance and complexity that Burgundy is celebrated for. Les Amoureuses, meaning 'the lovers' in French, is a fitting name for such a graceful wine. In Volume 28, this wine appears as the First Apostle, brought by Chris. It's described like a quiet spring suddenly emerging in a moss-covered primeval forest, where two violet-colored butterflies intertwine. When Chris presented this wine, it was as if time had stopped, and the harmony and mystery of nature were captured within this bottle. Pour it into your glass and notice the garnet hue with a slight orange tint at the rim, hinting at its age. The aroma unfolds with dried herbs, underbrush, and a hint of black tea, reminiscent of walking through an autumn forest. On the palate, you'll find silky tannins carrying notes of raspberry and violets. The acidity is lively, providing a firm backbone to the wine. The finish is long, lingering quietly. This wine is elegant and complex, perfect for savoring slowly. Serve it at around 14-16°C in a moderately sized glass to fully appreciate its nuances.Read review
  13. 13Château Palmer 1999PublishedChâteau Palmer 1999Château PalmerChris brought the second apostle, likened to the Mona Lisa displayed in Da Vinci's studio.Taste the artistry in harmonyChâteau Palmer is one of those highly acclaimed estates in Bordeaux, specifically nestled in the village of Margaux. They primarily use Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and the 1999 vintage reflects that year's favorable weather, leading to a well-balanced maturity in the grapes. This one's definitely worth opening. In the 28th volume of "Drops of God," Chris presents this wine as the second apostle. The description likens it to the Mona Lisa in Da Vinci's studio, exuding perfect harmony and beauty. Such a special scene sets high expectations for this wine. Pouring this wine into your glass, you'll notice its deep garnet hue, reflecting its 27 years of aging with hints of brick tones, almost like a painting. The aroma is open, with the fruitiness of blackberries and cassis, layered with dried herbs and tea notes. On the palate, it offers rich and powerful acidity that tightens the overall structure, with dense tannins that glide smoothly across the tongue. The finish is long, elegant, and complex, leaving a lasting impression. This wine has a solid backbone, yet its velvety tannins gently envelop the entire experience. For optimal enjoyment, use a slightly larger glass to fully appreciate the aromas. Serving it slightly cooler will help draw out its complexity and elegance.Read review
  14. 14Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée da Capo 2000PublishedChâteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée da Capo 2000Domaine du PegauChris brought the third apostle, a wine of conviviality.A timeless masterpiece from RhôneChâteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée da Capo by Domaine du Pegau is a powerhouse of a wine, you know. This 2000 vintage showcases the robust Grenache and Syrah grapes, thriving in the warm Rhône climate, giving it rich fruitiness and the ability to age gracefully. This cuvée stands out as a special bottle, filled with the tradition and passion of the Pegau family. In Volume 28, Chris brings this wine as the third apostle. It's depicted as the wine of camaraderie, enhancing special moments with its presence. The characters gather around it, delving into deep conversations, making it a memorable part of the story. Pour it into a glass, and you'll see a garnet hue with a hint of brick, showing its age but also its depth. The aroma is open, with ripe blackberry and black cherry notes, layered with a spicy touch of black pepper. It's tantalizing from the get-go. On the palate, it starts with a smooth attack, followed by rich fruitiness and powerful tannins that give the wine structure. The acidity is round and well-balanced. The finish is long, with complex aromas lingering on the palate. The velvety tannins stand out, making it perfect for savoring slowly as it continues to mature. Decanting it a bit before serving can really open up the aromas and enhance the experience even more.Read review
  15. 15Château Lafleur 1994PublishedChâteau Lafleur 1994Château LafleurChris brought the fourth apostle, likened to Shimazaki Toson's 'First Love'.Taste the essence of aged masteryChâteau Lafleur is one of those iconic Bordeaux wines that you just have to try. It's primarily made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and it represents the elegant side of Bordeaux. The 1994 vintage is in its prime right now, making it the perfect time to pop open a bottle and enjoy. This wine makes an appearance in volume 28 of 'Drops of God'. Chris brings it as the Fourth Apostle, likening it to the theme of Shimazaki Toson's 'First Love'. It's said that through this wine, you can feel something that resonates with the sweet and sour notes of a first love. Pour it into a glass and you'll see a deep garnet hue that's truly beautiful. The aroma is open, with notes of black cherry and cassis greeting you first, followed by hints of undergrowth and tobacco. On the palate, there's a lush fruitiness, smooth acidity, and velvety tannins. It's well-balanced with a long, complex finish. That's the magic of aging at work.Read review
  16. 16Chevalier-Montrachet 2000PublishedChevalier-Montrachet 2000Michel Colin-DelégerChris brought the fifth apostle, standing atop the solitary peak of the Matterhorn after overcoming difficulties.Elegance atop a solitary peakChevalier-Montrachet by Michel Colin-Deléger is one of those standout Chardonnays from Burgundy that really captures the essence of the region. This 2000 vintage is at a perfect stage of maturity, showcasing the elegance and complexity that 100% Chardonnay can deliver. As a Grand Cru from Burgundy, it possesses both grace and strength, making it perfect for special occasions. In the manga, Chris brings this wine as the Fifth Apostle, symbolizing overcoming challenges and standing tall like the solitary peak of the Matterhorn. In Volume 28, the scene underscores the deep message that the wine conveys. When you pour it into the glass, you'll notice a golden hue with a slightly amber rim, typical of its age. On the nose, there's this toasty, buttery aroma that just fills the air. It's beautifully intertwined with subtle notes of pear and white peach, giving it a refined elegance. Taking a sip, you get this smooth attack followed by a robust acidity that gives the wine its backbone. The finish is long, leaving a lingering mineral note. To fully enjoy Chevalier-Montrachet, serve it slightly chilled in a medium-sized glass, and you'll find its charm expanding with every sip.Read review
  17. 17Barolo Cannubi Boschis 2001PublishedBarolo Cannubi Boschis 2001Luciano SandroneThe sixth apostle brought by Chris, the Miroku Bosatsu statue, is said to express the very principles of the universe.A profound sip through timeLuciano Sandrone's Barolo Cannubi Boschis, now known as Barolo Aleste, is a masterpiece crafted entirely from Nebbiolo grapes in the renowned Piedmont region. The 2001 vintage is particularly celebrated among Barolo enthusiasts. Sandrone is known for his ability to balance tradition and modernity, highlighting the intrinsic beauty of Nebbiolo. In Volume 28, this Barolo appears as Chris presents it as the Sixth Apostle. Its grandeur is likened to the Maitreya Bodhisattva statue, symbolizing the cosmic logic of the universe itself. Such an image invites you to wonder what universe unfolds the moment you uncork this bottle. Pouring it into the glass reveals an orange-tinged garnet hue, reminiscent of an ancient jewel. The aroma is immediately deep and layered, offering dried plums, hints of tea, and a touch of sous-bois. On the palate, the attack is rich with lively yet robust acidity. The tannins are velvety, leaving a lush finish that lingers gracefully. Overall, this wine is incredibly complex, combining elegance with strength. Decanting it before drinking further enhances its full potential.Read review
  18. 18Sine Qua Non The Inaugural Eleven Confessions Syrah 2003PublishedSine Qua Non The Inaugural Eleven Confessions Syrah 2003Sine Qua NonThe seventh apostle brought by Chris, the eternally unfinished Sagrada Familia towering in Barcelona, Spain.A wine like art, captivating with each sipHave you heard of Sine Qua Non? They're known for crafting beautiful Syrah wines in California. This "The Inaugural Eleven Confessions Syrah" from 2003 is something special—it's one of those wines you just have to try. The richness it brings to the palate is just extraordinary. In Volume 28 of 'Drops of God', Chris presents this as the Seventh Apostle. It's likened to the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. Both stand as masterpieces in progress, echoing each other's unfinished grandeur. When you pour it into a glass, that deep ruby color is captivating. As it ages, it develops a bit of a brick hue. The aroma is incredibly complex—think blackberries and cassis, with a touch of spicy black pepper. It's like a dense fruit grove in a bottle. On the palate, you get this silky tannin and full-bodied richness that just envelops your tongue. The acidity is firm, bringing everything into balance. The finish is long, leaving you savoring every moment. Decanting this wine before drinking really lets its beauty shine. Give it a try, you won't regret it.Read review
  19. 19Jacques Selosse Cuvée Exquise NVPublishedJacques Selosse Cuvée Exquise NVJacques SelosseThe eighth apostle brought by Chris, the admired 'Madonna'.Raise a glass to the "Madonna"Jacques Selosse's Cuvée Exquise NV is a sparkling white wine from the Champagne region, and it's something special, you know. It's crafted from a beautiful blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Selosse is known for a natural approach that truly captures the essence of the terroir, making it a standout. In Volume 28 of 'Drops of God', this wine appears as the Eighth Apostle, brought by Chris. He refers to it as the "Madonna," and when it's opened, it changes the whole atmosphere. The effervescent bubbles rise elegantly in the glass, creating a moment that's just unforgettable. In the glass, it's a bright golden color, with fine bubbles dancing around. The aroma is filled with fruity notes of pear and white peach, alongside toasty hints of brioche. When you take a sip, it's elegant and minerally, with lively acidity that pops in your mouth. The bubbles are creamy, melting softly on your tongue. The finish is long and complex, revealing layers that keep you intrigued. Serve it well chilled on a special occasion, and you'll truly appreciate what this Champagne has to offer.Read review