Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2012

Last year’s second edition of Festivin sold out with 1,400 wine-thirsty attendees, and even more are expected for this year’s at Shibuya’s fancy-schmancy new Hikarie Hall. Japan’s largest natural wine festival will offer 300-plus European wines and tasters from eight talked-about Japanese wineries. Natural wine is made with minimal chemical and technological intervention in the process—distinct from organic wine which is merely made from organic grapes. Not only is it better for the environment, but the Festivin folk claim it tastes better, and gives you less of a hangover. With unlimited grapeage for ¥7,000 (¥6,000 advance), you can really put that to the test.

Sun, Dec 9, 9F Hikarie Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. http://festivin.com