Maison Apéro
Media Technology
English

Maison Media

Obuse Winery Domaine Sogga Merlot Murasaki Numéro Cinq 2022

Updated · Sep 9, 2026

Producer
Obuse Winery
Region
Nagano · JP
Vintage
2022

Domaine Sogga is the estate-grown label of Obuse Winery, a benchmark artisanal producer situated in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Winemaker Akihiko Soga crafts parcel-specific red wines from the Murasaki sector in Obuse, where well-drained alluvial soils and an inland alpine climate yield refined expressions of classic European varieties. Numéro Cinq represents a specific single-parcel Merlot, vinified with traditional European precision and restrained oak maturation.

Tasting review

From the review saved in Maison Apéro for this wine and vintage.

Domaine Sogga is the estate-grown label of Obuse Winery, a benchmark artisanal producer situated in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Winemaker Akihiko Soga crafts parcel-specific red wines from the Murasaki sector in Obuse, where well-drained alluvial soils and an inland alpine climate yield refined expressions of classic European varieties. Numéro Cinq represents a specific single-parcel Merlot, vinified with traditional European precision and restrained oak maturation.

Structured tasting profile

ClarityClear
IntensityMedium
ColorRuby
Aroma intensityMedium+
DevelopmentYouthful
SweetnessDry
AcidityMedium+
TanninMedium
AlcoholMedium
BodyMedium
Flavour intensityMedium+
FinishMedium+
QualityOutstanding
Readiness for drinkingCan drink, with potential

Primary

Red fruit, Black fruit, Herbal, Spice

Secondary

Oak

Quality markers

✓ Balance, ✓ Length, ✓ Intensity, ✓ Complexity

Up to 8 aromas across all three categories, with a target of 4–5 palate flavours. Only supported descriptors are listed; absences do not count as aromas. Red check counts are not scores.

Expert commentary

The 2022 vintage showcases vivid red cherry and black plum fruit underpinned by Nagano's brisk natural acidity. Powdery, fine tannins interlock cleanly with delicate cedar and toasted spice notes from judicious barrel ageing. The palate remains light on its feet yet concentrated, demonstrating noteworthy cool-climate elegance.

Serving and ageing guide

This wine can drink now but has potential for ageing. Its vibrant fruit concentration and crisp acidity are supported by finely textured tannins that will allow graceful development over the next four to six years. For optimal service, pour at 16–17°C after decanting for 30 minutes to permit the subtle spice and floral nuances to unfold. It pairs naturally with pan-seared duck breast, roasted squab, or braised pork with autumn mushrooms. The wine achieves a very good standard through harmonious structural balance, refined aromatic complexity, and a persistent finish. Its medium plus aroma intensity on the nose matches the medium plus flavour intensity on the palate, ensuring that subtle herbal and oak tones do not overshadow the pure red and dark berry profile. The refreshing acidity elevates the lingering spiced finish.

Appearance

Tasting Review Example Réserve

Advanced analysis Grand

Nose

Tasting Review Example Réserve

Advanced analysis Grand

Palate

Tasting Review Example Réserve

Advanced analysis Grand

Quality

Tasting Review Example Réserve

Advanced analysis Grand

Readiness for drinking

Tasting Review Example Réserve

Advanced analysis Grand

Read Réserve and Grand sections by signing in to Maison Apéro with the corresponding plan.

Maison Apéro uses a multi-stage validation process. This tasting review is data-driven reference information created from wine information and analytical signals. Actual aromas, flavours and condition may vary by bottle, storage, service and individual perception, so it is not a definitive assessment.