At a press conference held at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo on Thursday, August 28, the “Y by Yoshiki × Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine” was announced—marking a global collaboration between YOSHIKI, recently named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2025, and internationally renowned contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara.
Both artists—Yoshitomo Nara, one of the few Japanese visual artists ever selected for the TIME100, and YOSHIKI, the first Japanese musician to receive the honor—have achieved global acclaim in their respective fields. This extraordinary partnership represents a rare fusion of art and music, capturing worldwide attention as a truly “unprecedented” project.
Based in Napa Valley, USA, Y by YOSHIKI has earned widespread acclaim for producing wines that are celebrated both in Japan and internationally. The bottle design for this special release was created by renowned Japanese contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara, whose works are featured in world-class institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. His art enjoys global popularity and critical acclaim.
Nara, who has long had an affinity for punk rock, was introduced to YOSHIKI through a mutual acquaintance. Their shared artistic sensibilities, values, and passion for wine sparked a natural connection—ultimately leading to this remarkable collaboration. This marks the first major artist partnership for Y by YOSHIKI since its project with Stella McCartney, adding to the rarity and significance of the release.
Comment from Yoshitomo Nara
“I’ve admired YOSHIKI’s work in the music world for a long time—he’s truly incredible. He expresses himself so honestly that I felt I could trust him. Above all, his wines have always been delicious, so the idea of my illustration appearing on one of his labels genuinely excited me, and I decided to join the collaboration.
What’s special is that the illustration isn’t just on the label—it’s even on the cap, which is something you rarely see in other wines. That level of detail really impressed me. At the same time, I felt a lot of pressure wondering how much artistic value I could add to a wine that was already so complete.
We’ve been talking about this project for quite a while, so I’m happy that it’s finally being released to the world.”
Comment from YOSHIKI
“When I met Nara, I never imagined that we would be able to collaborate to this extent. I am overwhelmed with emotion to be working on this project with Nara, an artist I deeply respect—it truly feels like a dream come true. I believe this will grow into a major project in the future. All of the wines released as part of this collaboration are masterpieces of Y by YOSHIKI. I’m excited for you to experience them.”
At the press conference, YOSHIKI’s partner Robert Mondavi Jr., who was also in Japan for this special occasion, took the stage to announce the release of three new vintages from the Y by YOSHIKI California series: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rosé. Mondavi spoke about the appeal of the new wines and shared his thoughts on working with YOSHIKI. The general release is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24.
YOSHIKI also announced the launch of the “Y by YOSHIKI Members Club,” a new subscription service offering ongoing access to Y by YOSHIKI wines at a fixed price. Created in response to growing demand and YOSHIKI’s desire to make the brand more widely accessible, the service will offer two distinct membership tiers: the Smart Casual Club, designed to be approachable for a broad audience, and the Masterpiece Club, which provides exclusive value and premium experiences.
The service and its dedicated app are set to launch on Tuesday, September 30, with pre-registration beginning on Thursday, August 28. The first shipments are scheduled for mid-November.
The Smart Casual Club offers an easy, approachable way to explore YOSHIKI’s world of wine, including regular newsletters and exclusive online content that brings his vision to life. Meanwhile, the Masterpiece Club provides priority access to rare and limited-edition offerings—including luxury California wines, champagne, and exclusive collaborations. These include the newly announced Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine and the Domaine Takahiko Collaboration Wine, which began production in May in Yoichi, Hokkaido.
While the service will initially launch in Japan only, international expansion is already being planned.
“Y by YOSHIKI Members Club” Pre-Registration:
https://www.yoshiki-store.com/forms/ybyyoshikimembersclub
At the end of the press conference, YOSHIKI gave a surprise performance of “FOREVER LOVE” on his crystal piano. The delicate melody filled the venue, bringing a stunning conclusion to an event filled with bold and unexpected announcements.
YOSHIKI is currently performing his own dinner show, “EVENING / BREAKFAST with YOSHIKI 2025 in TOKYO JAPAN KURENAI.” During the show on Saturday the 23rd, he sustained an injury to his right hand after contact with a fan. He has since received medical treatment under a doctor’s supervision and is expected to perform as scheduled for the remaining five shows over the next three days, leading up to the finale.
New Vintage from Y by YOSHIKI California - Scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Y by YOSHIKI Chardonnay “Encore” California 2024
Suggested Retail Price: ¥6,500 (excluding tax)
Variety: Chardonnay
Alcohol Content: 13.6%
Tasting Notes:
A vibrant and expressive Chardonnay that opens with tropical fruit aromas, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and crème brûlée. Medium-bodied with clean acidity, this wine offers a well-balanced palate and a fresh, lingering finish.
Y by YOSHIKI Rosé California 2024
Suggested Retail Price: ¥5,500 (excluding tax)
Varieties: Merlot, Barbera, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Tasting Notes:
This elegant California rosé displays a vibrant ruby-pink hue. Aromas of red currant, black currant, and raspberry are delicately accented by subtle notes of white pepper. Juicy red fruits unfold on the palate, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. A refined and charming expression of California rosé.
Y by YOSHIKI Cabernet Sauvignon “Encore”
California 2023
Recommended Retail Price: ¥6,800 (excluding tax)
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Tasting Notes:
This powerful and richly textured Cabernet Sauvignon reveals bold aromas of blackberry, ripe plum, and cassis, balanced with hints of cedar, tobacco, and subtle spice. The palate offers a rounded, full-bodied flavor with soft, integrated tannins and a smooth, lingering finish.
Y by Yoshiki × Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine - Scheduled for February 2026
Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley 2022
Pinot Noir Russian River 2022
Chardonnay Russian River 2023
YOSHIKI Official Site: https://www.yoshiki.net/
YOSHIKI YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/yoshikiofficial
YOSHIKI Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoshikiofficial/