G 2015, Hirotaké Ooka, Grande Colline Estate

Very limited quantity,


Hirotake Ooka is a Japanese winemaker whose career illustrates a deep passion for natural wine and a quest for authenticity.

From Tokyo to Bordeaux: a path to natural wine
Originally from Tokyo, Hirotake Ooka left Japan in the late 1990s to pursue studies in viticulture and oenology in France. He chose Bordeaux, attracted by the richness of its terroir and the reputation of its wines. It was there that he met Jean-Yves Péron, a winemaker with whom he shared a passion for "different" wines, often classified as natural wines. Subsequently, he completed internships in the Rhône Valley, notably with Thierry Allemand, an emblematic figure of Cornas, where he learned the subtleties of natural winemaking.

🍇 The birth of the Domaine de la Grande Colline
In 2007, with the help of Thierry Allemand, Hirotake Ooka acquired 19 hectares of vineyards in the Saint-Péray region of Ardèche, on the granite of Cornas. He cleared 3 hectares to plant Syrah, the region's emblematic grape variety. His approach was radical: let nature take its course, without excessive human intervention. He opted for biodynamic cultivation, without chemical treatments, and vinification without added yeasts or sulfites, following the principles of natural wine.

Its wines, such as the "G", "S" and "Canon" vintages, were renowned for their purity, freshness and balance between indulgence and finesse. However, production remained confidential, with limited volumes, sometimes as low as 200 liters in 2018.
Singulars

✈️ Return to Japan and transfer of the domain
In 2019, after a series of challenges, including the loss of 90% of the 2013 harvest, Hirotake Ooka decided to return to Japan. He settled in the southern Okayama Prefecture, known for its table grape production. There, he founded a new winery, continuing to produce natural wines using local grape varieties, such as Shōkōshi, derived from a wild variety of Japanese mountain grape.

The Domaine de la Grande Colline was taken over by Thierry Allemand, who strives to maintain the spirit of the place while adapting practices to contemporary challenges.

🏞️ Legacy and influence
Hirotake Ooka's career represents a successful fusion of French and Japanese winemaking traditions. His commitment to natural wine and respect for terroir left their mark on the Rhône Valley and inspired countless winemakers. Today, his legacy lives on through his iconic vintages and the influence he has had on contemporary viticulture.

Agreements:

🍖 Red meats and game
Matured rib-eye steak, grilled or baked — to highlight the wine’s tannic density and complexity.

Leg of lamb (pink), with herbs of Provence — Syrah likes rosemary, thyme and garlic.

Venison or wild boar, grand veneur or cranberry sauce — perfect for the wild aromas of Cornas.

Roasted duck breast with figs or pepper - the fat and fruit highlight the roundness of the wine.

🍲 Rich, slow-cooked dishes
Provençal stew or beef bourguignon — the long cooking time pairs perfectly with the depth of the 2015 vintage.

Cassoulet (in moderation on the salt) — the fat, beans, smoked meats go well with the structure of the wine.

🧀 Mature cheeses
Tomme de brebis, Salers, old Cantal, Bleu de Gex — not too strong so as not to overwhelm the wine, but mature enough to respond to it.

🥘 Tough Vegetarian Alternatives
Eggplant gratin, moussaka style, or with roasted mushrooms.

Chili sin carne with black beans, spices and dark cocoa (subtle) — perfect for recalling the spicy depth of Cornas.

🕰️ Service tip:
Decant 1 to 2 hours in advance to aerate the wine well.

Serve at 16-17°C, not too hot to preserve the tension.

Souvenir wine, to drink slowly, until the last drop. We take the time, we appreciate the moment, we soak up its emotion. It will be part of your story, of your most significant and precious moments.

Shipping and delivery costs

Shipping costs vary depending on the type of transport, the carrier and the delivery location, as specified when placing the Order. The exact costs will be indicated to the Customer before confirming the Order.

Delivery is made to the address indicated by the Customer. The Company is not responsible for delivery errors due to incorrect information provided by the Customer.

Delivery times vary depending on the type of port and the delivery location, but will not exceed thirty (30) days from validation of the Order, unless otherwise specified when ordering.

In the event of non-receipt of the package or damage, the Customer must notify Terra Vinea and the carrier within 3 days of delivery. 

Right of withdrawal

In accordance with Article L.221-18 of the French Consumer Code, the Customer has fourteen (14) days to exercise his right of withdrawal from a contract concluded remotely, without having to provide reasons or pay penalties, with the exception of return costs. This period begins upon receipt of the package by the Customer.

Products must be returned in good condition, in their original packaging and accompanied by the original invoice. Your purchase will then be refunded to you within fourteen (14) days after receipt of the package by Terra Vinea.

The Customer may exercise his right of withdrawal by contacting the Company by email.