Delaware

Delaware is a grape with a life both at the table and in the winery. Originating in the United States, it also became established in Japan, where the fruit is familiar far beyond wine drinking. Its pinkish berries are not a promise of rosé: pressing them without extended skin contact can produce a white wine.

Its importance comes partly from being different from the European grapes that dominate international labels. Delaware belongs to the American grape tradition and can bring a recognisable, grapey fragrance to wine. Producers work with it in several ways, so the variety alone will not tell you whether a bottle is dry, sweet, still or sparkling.

Approach it as a separate taste rather than expecting a copy of Chardonnay. A fresh, dry bottle is worth trying with light dishes and simple snacks; a sweeter one needs its sugar considered alongside the food. Where it appears in a Japanese wine selection, the producer's tasting note is the most useful guide to the intended style.