At a packed press conference at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, legendary composer, rock star, and entrepreneur YOSHIKI and internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara—both named to TIMEmagazine’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World—unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration: “Y by YOSHIKI × Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine.”
This historic partnership marks the first time that two Japanese artists named in the TIME100 list—Nara, one of the world’s most recognized contemporary artists, and YOSHIKI, the first Japanese musician ever selected—have joined forces on a global stage. Their union bridges the worlds of music, art, and wine, sparking international attention.
Based in Napa Valley, “Y by YOSHIKI” has consistently earned critical acclaim both in Japan and abroad. For this project, YOSHIKI has invited Nara—whose works are housed in world-renowned institutions including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao—to design the label, making each bottle a true collector’s item that fuses wine and contemporary art.
The collaboration was born from a personal connection. A passionate fan of punk rock, Nara quickly bonded with YOSHIKI over shared artistic values and a mutual love of wine. This synergy led to the creation of a project that transcends borders, genres, and expectations.
This marks the first major collaboration for Y by YOSHIKI since its celebrated project with Stella McCartney, underscoring the rarity and cultural significance of this partnership. Together, YOSHIKI and Yoshitomo Nara are redefining the intersection of fine wine and high art.
Nara Yoshitomo on the Collaboration
I’ve admired YOSHIKI’s extraordinary success in music for years, but what struck me most when we met was his honesty and authenticity. He’s someone I can truly trust. Above all, his wines are remarkable—absolutely delicious. The idea that my artwork would appear on his label made me incredibly excited, and ultimately led me to join this project. Even the bottle cap carries a small illustration, which is rare in the wine world. Of course, there was great pressure: how much artistic value could I bring to something that already had a perfected taste? After countless discussions, I’m proud that we are finally ready to share this with the world.
YOSHIKI on Partnering with Nara
When I first met Nara, I never dreamed we would collaborate on this scale. To create something together with an artist I deeply respect feels like a dream come true. I’m convinced this will become one of the most important projects of my career. Every wine in this collaboration represents the pinnacle of Y by YOSHIKI. I can’t wait for people around the world to experience them.
Robert Mondavi Jr. Joins for Global Launch
Also taking the stage in Tokyo was YOSHIKI’s winemaking partner, Robert Mondavi Jr., whose family is synonymous with Napa Valley. Together they announced the release of three new vintages from the Y by YOSHIKI California series: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rosé. Mondavi highlighted the distinctive character of these new wines and reflected on his ongoing creative partnership with YOSHIKI. The new vintages will be released globally on Wednesday, September 24.
Y by YOSHIKI Members Club: A New Wine Subscription Service
In addition, YOSHIKI announced the launch of “Y by YOSHIKI Members Club,” a subscription service designed to meet surging demand and make his wines more accessible to fans and collectors. The program will offer two tiers:
The Members Club and its dedicated app will officially launch in Japan on Tuesday, September 30, with pre-registration beginning Thursday, August 28. The first shipments are scheduled for mid-November, with plans for global expansion to follow.
「Y by YOSHIKI Members Club」Pre-registration Link:
https://www.yoshiki-store.com/forms/ybyyoshikimembersclub
At the end of the press conference, YOSHIKI delivered a surprise rendition of “FOREVER LOVE” on a crystal piano. His delicate notes filled the venue and brilliantly closed out the press conference that delivered a series of shocking announcements.
YOSHIKI is currently performing his dinner shows, “EVENING / BREAKFAST with YOSHIKI 2025 in TOKYO JAPAN KURENAI.” During a show on Saturday August 23rd, he suffered an injury to his right hand due to contact from a fan, however he has since received medical treatment under doctor’s judgement and is expected to perform his five remaining shows in the next three days, as scheduled.
< Wine Name / Suggested Retail Price>
【Y by YOSHIKI California New Vintage】
Y by YOSHIKI Chardonnay “Encore” California 2024
Suggested Retail Price: ¥6,500(tax excluded)
Grape Variety: Chardonnay
Alcohol Content: 13.6%
Tasting Notes: This vibrant and versatile Chardonnay offers tropical fruit aromas, subtle hints of vanilla, and crème brûlée flavors. The medium body and clean acidity create a balanced palate with a fresh, lingering finish.
Y by YOSHIKI Rosé California 2024
Suggested Retail Price: ¥5,500(tax excluded)
Grape Variety: Merlot, Barbera, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Tasting Notes: A vibrant ruby pink in color, this wine features distinctive aromas of red currant, black currant, and raspberry, accented with a delicate nuance of white pepper. Juicy red fruits unfold on the palate, culminating in a clean, refreshing finish. This is an elegant and delightful California rosé wine.
Y by YOSHIKI Cabernet Sauvignon “Encore” California 2023
Suggested Retail Price: ¥6,800(tax excluded)
Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Tasting Notes: Powerful and rich texture, it offers aromas of blackberry, ripe plum and cassis balanced with cedar, tobacco and a hint of spice. The palate is rounded and rich, with soft, integrated tannins and a smooth, long finish.
<General Release>
Scheduled for Wednesday September 24, 2025
【Y by YOSHIKI × Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine】
Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley 2022
Pinot Noir Russian River 2022
Chardonnay Russian River 2023
<General Release>
Scheduled for February, 2026
<Y by YOSHIKI Links>
Y by YOSHIKI Official Site:
Y by YOSHIKI Official Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ybyyoshiki
Y by YOSHIKI Official X: