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About
W.S. Forster, Profile
Born in Austria, W. S. Forster was introduced to the world of wine at the tender age of 9 while working in his family's village restaurant. His sense of responsibility and passion, cultivated throughout his formative years, laid the foundation for his future career. After completing university and military service in his early twenties, Mr. Forster embarked on a journey to New Zealand where he collaborated with pioneering winemakers in the Nelson/Motueka region to produce two exceptional vintages.
By the mid-eighties, Mr. Forster transitioned from production to the commercial side of the wine industry, establishing himself in Japan as an agent bridging prestigious Italian wineries with importers across Japan and the Far East. Shortly thereafter, he was appointed as the Osaka branch manager and chief buyer for a distinguished importing company, affording him the opportunity to traverse the globe's most renowned wine regions. These experiences honed his discerning palate for identifying exceptional wines and producers, dramatically expanding his expertise and portfolio.
In June 2007, leveraging his extensive knowledge and international network, Mr. Forster established Estate Wines. The company specializes in meticulously curated fine wines, providing exceptional service to elite restaurants, prestigious hotels, premium retailers, and discerning connoisseurs throughout the region. Additionally, Mr. Forster conducts acclaimed seminars across Japan, sharing his profound insights into the complexity and allure of fine wines with enthusiastic audiences nationwide.
Our Wines
Estate Wines is dedicated to providing discerning clients with genuinely exceptional wines from carefully selected small-scale producers. We are not merely distributors but curators who respect the terroir and traditions of each growing region, selecting only wines crafted with artisanal passion. While acknowledging the merits of renowned varietals such as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, we take particular pride in showcasing indigenous grapes from around the world—including Grüner Veltliner, Nebbiolo, and Teroldego—bringing diversity and discovery to your dining experience.
We believe each wine in our portfolio should reflect the geographical and cultural context of its origin. We partner exclusively with producers who accurately express their terroir and employ sustainable viticulture practices, balancing environmental consciousness with uncompromising quality. Estate Wines serves restaurants seeking perfect food-wine harmony, retailers committed to excellence, and enthusiasts eager to explore authentic flavors beyond mainstream offerings—providing genuine value and memorable wine experiences to all our clients.
Gastronomy & Wine Pairing
Approximately 80% of wine consumption occurs in conjunction with meals. At Estate Wines, we are committed to providing selections that enhance the gastronomic experience. While many wines may be fashionable or pleasant in isolation, not all demonstrate the versatility and balance required for harmonious food pairing. The fundamental principles we consider essential include:
- Moderate alcohol content (11.5% - 13.5%) — higher levels can overwhelm delicate flavors
- Restrained oak influence — excessive oak can interfere with the synergy between wine and cuisine
- Balanced acidity — essential for palate cleansing and salivation stimulation (applicable to both red and white wines)
- Structure and balance — complexity and harmony that complement rather than compete with food
- Expression of terroir — wines that reflect their origin often pair naturally with regional cuisines
Contemporary dining habits increasingly reflect health-conscious considerations, trending toward lighter culinary preparations: reduced calories, less red meat and saturated fats, increased consumption of seafood and vegetables, and lighter sauces. In response to these evolving dietary preferences, we find exceptional versatility and value in varietals such as Chenin Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio among whites; and Barbera, Zweigelt, Teroldego, Pinot Noir, and Sangiovese among reds. These selections offer not merely excellent standalone quality but demonstrate remarkable adaptability to modern cuisine.
We invite you to consult with our specialists for personalized recommendations that will elevate your dining experience. Whether developing a restaurant wine program or selecting bottles for a private dinner, our expertise is at your service to create memorable food and wine harmonies.
Our Wines
Custom Wine Events
Estate Wines offers bespoke wine experiences tailored to your specific needs. From intimate private tastings in your home to corporate seminars and comprehensive master classes at member clubs, we accommodate events of all scales and purposes.
Each event features a curated selection of wines from around the world, accompanied by expert commentary on regional history, viticultural characteristics, winemaking techniques, and food pairing principles. Sessions conducted by W.S. Forster himself draw upon more than three decades of industry expertise to deliver an educational yet sophisticated experience.
To discuss your customized wine event, please contact us:
Phone: +81 78-777-6616
Email: info@estate-wines.co.jp
Please include details about your preferred event size, objectives, and budget so we can
craft the perfect proposal for your occasion.
