In 2015, AL FIORE began cultivating grapes in its own vineyard. By 2020, small harvests became possible. With a long-term goal of creating a 100% estate-grown domaine “AL FIORE,” the “PASSO A PASSO” label was born—meaning “step by step,” a reflection of their steady, honest progress.
Limited to just 461 bottles, each label features an ultrasound image of the winemaker’s child, conceived during the first harvest. It’s a heartfelt symbol of nurturing both life and vines.
This release is a unique red blend led by Merlot, with touches of Chardonnay and Riesling. Soft tannins and a hint of spice make for a well-balanced wine with lingering charm and depth.
Producer: Fattoria AL FIORE
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Type: Red
Grapes: 20% estate-grown / 80% from trusted partner growers
Label design: Teruhiro Yanagihara
From the winemaker
At Fattoria AL FIORE, we began planting our own vineyard and partnering with wineries in 2015. Though the path has not been without challenges, by 2020 we were able to begin harvesting small batches. That said, our estate yields remain modest—sometimes only one or two barrels—and the vines are still finding their potential. For now, we continue blending with grapes from trusted farmers to create wines in greater volume.
We believe the day will come when ‘AL FIORE’ can stand entirely on the strength of our own grapes, focusing on single varietals. Until then, we take each step with care and humility. That’s why we’ve named this new journey ‘PASSO A PASSO’—step by step.
The label was designed by Teruhiro Yanagihara, a globally acclaimed designer who also created our winery’s entrance space. As our vines bore their first fruit, my wife Rena and I discovered we were expecting our first child. The label includes her ultrasound image—symbolizing the growth of both a new life and the vineyard.
Though we now have a few cuvées made entirely with our grapes, we’re still deciding whether to release them under the PASSO A PASSO line or reserve them for the AL FIORE domain. We want AL FIORE to represent the pinnacle of our expression.
We do not wish our estate wines to be seen as inherently superior. Rather, we hope they reflect our pursuit of excellence—crafted not just for today, but with a vision for the generations ahead. We are committed to creating Japanese wines we can share proudly with the world.
Thank you for your continued support. We’re grateful for every step of this journey together.
Hirotaka Meguro
Winemaker, Fattoria AL FIORE
