Hokkaido is the northernmost of Japan's main islands and is known for its cool climate and stunning natural beauty. The island is home to a small but growing wine industry, with a focus on cool-climate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zweigelt. The history of wine production in Hokkaido dates back to the late 19th century, when the first vineyards were planted by European settlers. However, it was not until the 1970s that the industry began to develop in earnest, with the establishment of several pioneering wineries.