Born in Niki-cho, Yamakawa pursued competitive cycling in Tokyo after university before returning to his roots. He relocated to Yoichi in 2015 and began intensive training in cultivation and winemaking at local wineries. His wife, who worked as a grape farmer supplying fruit to Yoichi wineries, provided the encouragement that guided him toward winemaking.
He cultivates primarily two red wine grape varieties on strategically positioned west-facing vineyards, where the evening sun optimizes ripeness development. The winery name thoughtfully combines 'Ran' (expressing joy and fun) with 'Sekka' (snow crystals), celebrating the winter beauty he deeply cherishes.
Driven by his desire to 'find joy in wine and contribute to others' happiness through wine,' he focuses on what he calls 'honest winemaking'—a philosophy that reveals the natural deliciousness of grapes while avoiding unnecessarily complicated techniques. This approach embodies a winemaking philosophy that brings equal enjoyment to both maker and drinker.
Winemaker
Shuntaro Yamakawa
山川 惇太郎
From Niki-cho
Former athlete who transitioned to winemaking
Philosophy & Vision
Honest winemaking, cherishing enjoyment