1. 1PublishedMontrachet 2000Marc ColinA candidate wine for the Fifth Apostle brought by Shizuku, resembling Mont Blanc, the highest peak of the Alps.The essence of Chardonnay, akin to Mont Blanc.Marc Colin's Montrachet is truly something special; it's all about Chardonnay and really showcases what Burgundy's all about. The 2000 vintage has aged beautifully, holding onto its charm all these years. In Volume 18 of 'Drops of God', Shizuku presents this wine, likening its majesty to that of Mont Blanc. You can practically see the awe in his face—it's like standing before a natural wonder, so powerful and captivating. Take a look at this wine, and you'll notice its clear golden hue. The aroma is wide open, offering ripe apricot and pear, with a whisper of buttery toastiness. Then, when you taste it, the rich fruitiness envelops you, creamy and smooth. The acidity is soft, perfectly balancing the whole experience, and the finish just lingers on and on. There's a mineral touch that adds complexity, making every sip feel like a new discovery. For this Montrachet, a bit of chilling and a large glass will let you savor its intricate aromas and depth fully. Trust me, that's how you'll get the best out of it.Read review→
2. 2PublishedChevalier-Montrachet 2000Michel Colin-DelégerThe Fifth Apostle wine brought by Issei, resembling the Matterhorn, embodies trials and the great sense of achievement upon overcoming them.Elegance forged through trialsChevalier-Montrachet, nestled in the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, is one of the crown jewels of white wines from this region. Made by Michel Colin-Deléger, this 2000 vintage is pure Chardonnay and it's got that touch of mineral elegance and rich fruitiness that makes you sit up and take notice. In 'Drops of God' volume 18, Issei Tomine brings this as the Fifth Apostle. It's likened to the Matterhorn—a symbol of trials and the triumph that comes after overcoming them. It demands your attention and effort, but the satisfaction it gives back is immense. Pour a glass and take a look at the color—it's got a golden hue that speaks of its age and depth. The aroma? Think of a bouquet of white flowers, but there's also a hint of orange zest and a touch of nuttiness. On the palate, you get this wave of rich fruit, followed by a robust yet smooth acidity. There's a mineral backbone that holds everything together. And the finish—it just goes on and on, like you're wandering through the vineyards of Burgundy. It's a wine you want to enjoy slowly, not too chilled, letting it open up and reveal its full character.Read review→
3. 3PublishedNocturne NVTaittingerA wine served at Monopole for Shizuku's consolation after losing the Fifth Apostle contest, with a gentle, feminine sweetness, reminiscent of a seductive blonde signorina, like a 'One Night Love.'A lush symphony of the nightTaittinger's Nocturne is a special sparkling wine from the Champagne region, beautifully blending Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. It's got that signature elegance of Taittinger, especially highlighting the grace of Chardonnay. Opening this bottle feels like setting the stage for a memorable night. In the 18th volume, this wine appears to comfort Shizuku after his loss in the fifth Apostle battle at Monopole. It's described with a tender sweetness, like a fleeting romance, bringing to mind a seductive blonde signorina. It seems to ease his heartache with its gentle charm. Pour it into a glass and watch those Nocturne bubbles dance lightly. The aroma opens up with hints of pear and white peach, creating a tropical vibe. The acidity is smooth, and as you sip, the richness of the fruit unfolds, leaving a gentle sweetness lingering on the palate. The finish is long and pleasant, perfect for savoring a quiet evening. Nocturne truly showcases Taittinger's elegance and balance, making it a delightful Champagne to enhance any special moment. It's a bottle that turns a special night into something even more intimate.Read review→
4. 4PublishedCondrieu La Doriane NVE. GuigalA wine served at Shizuku's consolation party, with a harmonious sensation on the tongue, a gentle golden hue, shining yet unobtrusive, like a topaz gem.The glow of topaz, a luxurious harmonyE. Guigal's Condrieu La Doriane is really one of those whites from the Rhône you need to try. Made from Viognier, it captures the character of its region beautifully. Even if Guigal's name is new to you, just a sip will reveal the quality of this wine. It has that typical white wine lightness, but with a complex aroma that leaves a pleasant finish.Read review→
5. 5PublishedLuce 1997Luce della ViteA wine served by Manager Kawaramou at Shizuku's consolation party, with the scent of late summer fields, transforming into a platter of fruits with just a sip, like a Ken Done painting.A taste of the Tuscan sunLuce by Luce della Vite is a remarkable red wine from Tuscany, a region rich in history and beautiful landscapes. The 1997 vintage is particularly special due to its great weather, making this bottle a treasure to open. You're not just drinking a wine; you're savoring a piece of Tuscany's timeless story. In volume 18, Luce makes its appearance at Shizuku's welcome back party, brought out by Kawarage. It's described as evoking the scent of an end-of-summer field, transforming with just one sip into a vibrant platter of fruits, much like the colorful paintings of Sydney-born artist Ken Done. This description perfectly captures the wine's vivid character and the special atmosphere it creates. When you pour a glass, the color is a deep garnet with a hint of orange on the rim, showing its age. The aroma is a delightful mix of ripe berries, earthy notes, and a touch of spice. The acidity is sharp, yet the palate is silky smooth, with tannins that feel velvety as they coat your tongue. Taking a sip, you'll find a rich fruitiness and complex flavors brought by years of aging. The finish is long, leaving a deep sense of satisfaction. It's perfect for special occasions, making those moments feel even more extraordinary. Try decanting it and using a large glass to let the aromas fully unfold.Read review→
6. 6PublishedHarlan Estate 1994Harlan EstateA wine Takasugi drank at a matchmaking meeting, crafted with Michel Rolland as a consultant, known as a top California cult wine with a rich, sweet, and concentrated taste, favored by Parker, with the '94 vintage rated 100 points and priced over 150,000 yen.The pinnacle of California winesHarlan Estate 1994 really stands out as a top-tier California wine. This vintage is especially famous because Robert Parker gave it a perfect 100 points. You know, having Michel Rolland involved only adds to its allure. Remember in 'Drops of God' volume 18, when Takasugi was sipping this during his arranged marriage meeting? It seemed to ease the tension in that moment. The wine's rich, sweet, and concentrated flavors are exactly what Parker loves. The 1994 vintage caught attention with its remarkable aroma and taste. When you tilt the glass, you see that deep garnet hue that hints at its age. As you take a sniff, rich scents of black cherry and plum emerge, along with a subtle exotic spice that adds an intriguing layer. On tasting, the tannins are velvety smooth, and you can feel the strong body of the wine. The finish is long and complex, a true testament to this wine's essence. If you're opening it, try serving it slightly chilled in a large glass to really bring out its depth.Read review→
7. 7PublishedCôtes du Rhône NVDomaine de la JanasseA wine listed at the yakitori restaurant run by Moegi's brother, frequented by Takasugi and others.The fiery passion of Rhône in a bottleDomaine de la Janasse's Côtes du Rhône is a blend primarily of Grenache and Syrah, capturing the spirit of the Rhône Valley. With grapes nurtured in a warm climate, it delivers a rich fruitiness, and the spiciness from Syrah adds just the right kick. When you open it, you can feel the essence of its land. In volume 18 of 'Drops of God,' this wine makes an appearance on the wine list at a yakitori restaurant run by Moegi's brother. It's the spot where Takasugi and friends gather. Here, not only can you enjoy beer, but wine as well. Pairing it with yakitori really brings out the wine's fruitiness and spice, enhancing the chicken's flavor. Pouring it into a glass, you get a lovely deep ruby color. The aromas are open, with ripe black cherry and plum sweetness wafting up first, followed by hints of white pepper and herbs typical of Syrah. The attack is full-bodied, with a well-defined acidity that offers a smooth mouthfeel overall. The tannins are dense, making it a great match with food. The finish leaves a slight smokiness and a chocolate-like creaminess. Pairing it with yakitori is spot on, making this wine perfect for enjoying with friends.Read review→
8. 8PublishedKoshu Kiiroka 2007Mercian Katsunuma WineryA wine Moegi drank blind at a party hosted by Takasugi, with a scent reminiscent of childhood evenings, shy and hesitant like a yellow rosebud, modestly opening in the night dew.Unlocking new charms of KoshuKoshu Kiiroka from Mercian Katsunuma Winery is a white wine that truly captures the essence of the Koshu grape, nurtured under the rich, natural conditions of Yamanashi. The 2007 vintage is particularly noted for its balance, offering a fresh perspective on the unique flavors of Koshu. In Volume 18, there's this scene at a party hosted by Takasugi where Moegi gets to taste this wine blind. She mentions how it reminds her of the scent of an evening porch from her childhood, which really paints a picture. The aroma is subtle yet unmistakably present, like a yellow rosebud hesitating to bloom, still damp with evening dew. Pour it into a glass and you'll see a bright yellow hue, with a hint of orange at the rim. The aroma starts off gentle, but as it opens up, you'll catch a whiff of muscat and fresh citrus notes. On the palate, the wine presents a lively acidity that's smooth like silk, spreading gently with a hint of fruity sweetness—it's incredibly drinkable. The finish is long, leaving a soft floral impression that lingers. It's a wine with understated elegance that makes you want to savor its gentle charm. I'd say chill it a bit and pair it with a special dinner to really enjoy its nuances.Read review→
9. 9PublishedVosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux NVHenri JayerA wine Shizuku suggested as a candidate for Mishima's wedding, the same wine Miyabi broke in volume 1.The hidden gem of Burgundy, timeless in every sipHenri Jayer's Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux is something of a legend in Burgundy, you know? Made entirely from Pinot Noir, this wine captures both the delicate and powerful sides of the region. It's a bottle that lets you savor the full charm of Burgundy. In Volume 18 of 'Drops of God', Shizuku picks this wine for Mishima's wedding. It's the same wine Miyabi broke in the first volume, so there's a sentimental touch to choosing it again. Shizuku must have wanted to make the occasion truly special. Take a look at the glass, will you? It's got a deep ruby hue, and when you swirl it, those legs are just lovely. The aroma's open, with ripe black cherry and plum taking center stage, alongside earthy notes and a hint of spice. It's the kind of scent that really draws you in. On the palate, rich fruit flavors take over, followed by silky tannins that coat your mouth. The acidity is lively, keeping everything in balance. The finish? It's long and complex, with layers of flavors unfolding one after another. This is the kind of wine you want to linger over, perfect for a special evening.Read review→
10. 10PublishedVosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux NVEmmanuel RougetAt Miyabi's wedding, Shizuku suggested a wine as a candidate, previously served instead of Henri Jayer's Cros Parantoux.Embrace the magic of Pinot NoirYou know, the Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux by Emmanuel Rouget is something special. Hailing from the renowned village of Vosne-Romanée in Burgundy, it's a pure expression of Pinot Noir. Emmanuel Rouget keeps the legacy of Henri Jayer alive with his passionate winemaking. In Volume 18 of 'The Drops of God', Shizuku mentions this wine as a contender for Mishima's wedding. Imagine it as a stand-in for Henri Jayer's own Cros Parantoux—that alone tells you how exceptional it is. It’s like this bottle was sitting at the celebration as a guest of honor. When you pour it, the bright ruby hue catches your eye—just beautiful. The aroma hits you with fresh cherries and raspberries, but there's more. You get these spicy, earthy hints that add layers of complexity. Tasting it, the tannins are silky smooth, wrapping around a lush fruitiness. The acidity is vibrant, giving the wine a refreshing lift and tying everything together. The finish lingers, leaving you with that warm, content feeling. It's a brilliant showcase of Burgundy's Pinot Noir charm.Read review→
11. 11PublishedChambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses 2001Georges RoumierThe wine served at Miyabi and Gilmar's wedding, representing the First Apostle, symbolizes the quiet beginning of life's prologue.A wine that whispers the prelude to lifeGeorges Roumier's Chambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses 2001 is a pure Pinot Noir from Burgundy. The name "Les Amoureuses" suggests a romantic elegance, and it's a standout among Roumier's wines. If you're thinking of opening a special bottle, this one should definitely be on your list. In Volume 18 of 'Drops of God,' this wine makes an appearance at the wedding of Mizushima and Guillemard. It's chosen as the First Apostle, representing the quiet beginning of life's journey. You know, it fits perfectly for such a significant moment like a wedding. Pour it into the glass and you'll see a deep ruby color. The nose is all about elegance, with hints of violets and black tea, mingling with ripe raspberries and black cherries. It's got this lovely complexity that just draws you in. On the palate, the tannins are silky smooth, and the acidity is lively, making for a superb balance. The finish is slightly long, leaving a soft, lingering impression. Serve it at around 14-16°C, and take your time with it in a medium-sized glass to really appreciate its aromas. It's one to savor slowly.Read review→
12. 12PublishedChâteau Palmer 1999Château PalmerThe wine at Miyabi and Gilmar's wedding, the Second Apostle, embodies the essence of a mother, where life begins and is born.A warm embrace, like a mother’s touchChâteau Palmer 1999 is a gem from Bordeaux's Médoc. With Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot at its core, and a hint of Cabernet Franc, this wine has matured beautifully over the years. It's the kind of bottle you open for a truly special occasion, bringing with it all the anticipation and excitement you could hope for. In volume 18, this wine makes its appearance at the wedding of Mishima and Gilmar. It's portrayed as a symbol of birth and new beginnings, akin to the nurturing embrace of a mother. It's the perfect choice for such a memorable day, don't you think? Pouring it into a glass, you see its deep garnet color, with a brick-orange rim that speaks of its age. The aroma is a complex mix of concentrated black cherry and cassis, with mature notes of tobacco and tea. It's both fresh and composed, inviting you in for more. On the palate, the richness of the fruit is complemented by a vibrant acidity. The tannins are dense yet refined, leaving a lasting impression. The finish is long, giving you a sense of fulfillment with every sip. It's elegant and complex, perfect for those special moments. Decant it and use a large glass to truly appreciate its depth.Read review→
13. 13PublishedChâteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Da Capo 2000Domaine PegauThe wine at Miyabi and Gilmar's wedding, the Third Apostle, conveys the warmth of a father's hand and the comfort found in family gatherings.A sip of familial warmthDomaine Pegau's Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Da Capo 2000 is a blend primarily of Grenache and Syrah. It's got all the power of the Rhône sun and the richness of the soil packed into this one bottle. With the aging it's gone through, now's the perfect time to pop it open. In 'Drops of God' volume 18, this wine shows up at Mikishima and Guillemard's wedding. Choosing this for such a special day really says something—it's like a symbol of the warmth of family ties. You get that comforting feeling of being held by a father's warm hand right there in the celebration. Take a look at the glass, and you'll see a deep brick-red hue. The aroma is open, bursting with ripe black cherry and plum. There's a nice touch of black pepper and spice in there, and you catch a hint of oak, too. When you taste it, you'll notice the full-bodied fruitiness, but the acidity is more rounded than sharp. The tannins are dense and well-structured, but they're silky on the palate. The finish is long, leaving you with a lingering sense of satisfaction. It's just the thing for a special occasion.Read review→
14. 14PublishedChâteau Lafleur 1994Château LafleurThe wine at Miyabi and Gilmar's wedding, the Fourth Apostle, captures the essence of first love and the bittersweet memories of adolescence.The taste of first loveChâteau Lafleur from the Pomerol region in Bordeaux is one of those wines that really catches your attention. The 1994 vintage is particularly intriguing, mainly featuring Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It's the kind of wine you'd want to open for those special occasions because it's made from grapes grown in a unique vineyard with limited production. In volume 18 of 'Drops of God', this wine makes a significant appearance at the wedding of Mishima and Guillemard. It's portrayed as the Fourth Apostle, likened to the taste of "first love." The scene captures the essence of those sweet and bittersweet memories of adolescence, making it seem like a wine that evokes special emotions. When you pour it into the glass, you'll notice its mature brick hue with an orange-tinted rim. The aroma is deep and complex, with notes of black cherry and cassis accompanied by spicy and dried herb undertones. Just taking a whiff pulls you into its depth. On the palate, there's a lush fruitiness with smooth and lively acidity. The tannins are velvety, allowing the wine to linger with a long finish. It's like reliving that first love, a memory etched into your soul—it's truly a special wine to experience.Read review→
15. 15PublishedChevalier-Montrachet 2000Michel Colin-DelégerThe wine at Miyabi and Gilmar's wedding, the Fifth Apostle, represents the trials and the joy of achievement that follows.The ultimate Chardonnay experienceChevalier-Montrachet by Michel Colin-Deléger is one of the crown jewels of Burgundy, crafted entirely from Chardonnay. The 2000 vintage, with its extended bottle aging, is truly in its prime now. Known for its exceptional quality even among grand cru vineyards, it’s a must-try for anyone serious about white Burgundy. In Volume 18 of 'Drops of God', this wine is served at the wedding of Mikashima and Guillemard, marking it as the fifth Apostle. It's a symbolic wine, representing the joy of overcoming trials. As the characters sip this wine, they taste the sweet success that follows hard-earned victory. As you pour it into the glass, you're greeted with a beautiful golden hue. The aromas are deeply layered, with nuances of toasted bread and vanilla from barrel aging. You'll also notice ripe pear and white peach, offering a complex yet harmonious bouquet. On the palate, it's creamy yet invigorated by lively, sharp acidity. The rich texture from oak aging enhances the depth of this wine, leaving you with a long, lingering finish. Serve it at around 12–14°C to fully appreciate its elegance. Perfect for a special occasion, don't you think?Read review→
16. 16PublishedGravello NVLibrandiA wine mentioned for pairing with Chinese cuisine, previously paired with kimchi.A glassful of Calabria's passionGravello by Librandi is a proud expression of southern Italy, specifically Calabria. This red wine uniquely combines tradition and innovation, prominently featuring a blend of Gaglioppo and Cabernet Sauvignon. This distinct combination thrives under the Calabrian sun, offering a robust body and complex flavors. In Volume 18 of 'Drops of God', this wine makes its appearance when discussing wines that pair well with Chinese cuisine. It's previously been noted to pair surprisingly well with kimchi, proving that it can match with spicy dishes delightfully, offering readers a fresh discovery. Pouring this wine, you immediately notice its deep ruby color and ample viscosity. The nose reveals abundant fruit notes like black cherry and blueberry, complemented by hints of spice and subtle vanilla. On the palate, it starts with a lush fruitiness followed by a lively acidity that beautifully balances with spicy foods. The tannins are firm and powerful, yet they gradually evolve into a smoother texture. The finish is long, leaving a subtle spice note lingering. Gravello shines best when enjoyed alongside a meal, enhancing its inherent charm.Read review→
17. 17PublishedBarolo Colonello Aldo Conterno NVAldo ConternoA wine whose name meaning was inquired by Lin, the owner of the Chinese restaurant chain Otowarou, to Honma.The essence of Piedmont in a glass of BaroloSo, this is the Barolo Colonello from Aldo Conterno, a pure Nebbiolo from Italy's Piedmont region. Known for its balance of power and elegance, this wine is a standout in the Barolo lineup—definitely one you should try. In volume 18, there's a scene where Hayashi, who runs the Chinese restaurant chain Otowarou, asks Honma about the meaning of this wine's name. You can imagine how Barolo pairs with the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. The name itself seems to unlock a deeper appreciation of its taste. When you pour it into a glass, you'll see a deep garnet hue that's just stunning. The aroma is open and complex, with dried fig and plum taking the lead, accompanied by a delicate rose scent. Upon tasting, the wine reveals a rich fruitiness that transitions into lively acidity. The tannins are dense and the finish is wonderfully long. This wine is both elegant and robust, and decanting it before serving could really enhance your experience.Read review→
18. 18PublishedVigna di Gabri Donnafugata 2006DonnafugataA wine opened by Honma to pair with garlic, reminiscent of a Mediterranean Sicilian seaside restaurant, with aromas of sea breeze and white flowers, similar to jasmine and suitable for Chinese cuisine.A special sip by the seaside terraceVigna di Gabri from Donnafugata is a delightful Sicilian white wine that embodies the warmth of the Mediterranean sun. The 2006 vintage is particularly well-suited for enjoying by the sea. Donnafugata is renowned for creating unique wines that capture the rich nature and history of Sicily. This bottle is perfect for those special moments when you want a taste of the Mediterranean breeze. In Volume 18 of 'Drops of God,' this wine is chosen by Honma to pair with garlic-infused dishes. The scene sets a picturesque backdrop with the contrast of marine blue seas and white shores, along with buildings featuring orange roofs and white walls—purely Sicilian. The dry, sea-scented wind carries aromas of white blossoms, evoking the vibe of a "seaside terrace." As Honma describes, the aroma is reminiscent of fine oolong tea and jasmine, making it a great match for Chinese cuisine too. Pouring this wine reveals a slightly golden hue. The nose opens readily with the elegance of jasmine and white flowers. The attack is very soft, with a mellow fruitiness that spreads across the palate. The acidity is well-structured yet smooth, creating a harmonious balance. It leaves a medium-long finish with lingering floral notes and a hint of minerality. To fully enjoy this wine, chill it to around 8-10°C and serve it in a medium-sized glass. This enhances the floral aroma and fresh acidity, making it even more delightful.Read review→