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Navigate 2024: Business Strategies for a Sustainable Future
In April 2024, Yukigawa Brewing’s representative, Tetsuya Yamahira, began the vintage season in New Zealand by harvesting Sauvignon Blanc grapes, a variety emblematic of the region. After returning to Japan in mid-April, vineyard work commenced, but challenges arose, notably from rabbits damaging young vines and a late frost on May 9 that significantly affected bud development, leading to reduced yields in varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris. Despite these setbacks, they achieved a milestone by harvesting grapes from their own vineyard for the first time, collecting 658 kg over four sessions in late September and October. The harvested grapes were used to produce wines, including a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, which was bottled and shipped to Japan, with plans for release in late November. They expressed gratitude to those who assisted with the harvest.