News | 12 November 2025

GI Wine Seminar – A Walk Through Europe’s Vineyards

On 11 November 2025, the Perfect Match campaign welcomed 94 attendees, including trade professionals and EU Member State representatives, to The Strings Omotesando for an inspiring exploration of EU Geographical Indication wines—a guided journey into Europe’s protected origins and rich winemaking heritage.

The program opened with an engaging presentation by Ms. Megumi Kobayashi of the EU Delegation to Japan, who explained how the EU’s PDO and PGI systems safeguard quality, authenticity, and traceability. Her insights resonated strongly with participants, sparking interest in how GI and Organic certifications strengthen consumer trust and support premium positioning within Japan’s dynamic wine market.

A dynamic panel discussion moderated by Ms. Mamiko Muto followed, bringing together leading figures from the importing, retail, and sommelier sectors. Their perspectives offered practical and forward-looking insights into market trends, consumer education, and new opportunities for EU GI wines in Japan’s evolving wine landscape.

The afternoon concluded with a lively networking reception featuring guided tastings of 52 EU wines led by professional sommeliers. Guests explored a wide range of European styles while exchanging ideas with peers and EU representatives—a vibrant close to an event that underscored the growing enthusiasm for EU GI wines in Japan.