FamilyMart, a major Japanese “Konbini” (convenience store), is re-releasing a wine series that has become legendary among enthusiasts. Starting April 28, 2026 (Tuesday), the “phantom” wine “XISTO,” which previously sold out repeatedly, will return to approximately 15,800 liquor-licensed stores across Japan. This series was born through a collaboration with the world-famous Japanese wine manga The Drops of God (Kami no Shizuku). Despite the convenience of being available at a local corner store, it delivers an overwhelming quality that has surprised even the experts.
Over 15 Million Copies Sold! The Overwhelming Quality Recognized by “The Drops of God”
Behind this revival is the influence of the manga The Drops of God, which has captivated wine fans worldwide. This legendary title has been translated into five languages, including French and Korean, with over 15 million copies in circulation. The original author, Tadashi Agi, personally tasted and selected these wines for this FamilyMart-exclusive collaboration series to reflect the deep worldview of the story.
The “XISTO” wine returning this time is a flagship product that once recorded sales approximately seven times higher than other wines in the same price range. Selling about 7,000 bottles per week, it became an unprecedented hit in the history of Japanese konbini wines.
The name “XISTO” comes from the soil of the La Mancha region in Spain (Schist: Xisto in the local dialect) and the windmills that symbolize the region, stylized as an “X.” By developing unique procurement routes, they have managed to use high-quality base wines that would normally be extremely difficult to offer in the 1,000 yen range (approx. $7–$10). It is truly a “Miracle Bottle.”
Expect a Sell-Out! The Two Legendary Labels Returning
Both returning labels are authentic Spanish wines made from Tempranillo grapes. Despite the affordable 1,000 yen price point, you can enjoy a luxurious taste achieved through long-term aging.
XISTO Gran Reserva
- Release Date: April 28 (Tuesday)
- Price: 1,272 yen (1,399 yen tax incl. / approx. $9.30)
- Region: Nationwide (Japan)
- Features: Using grapes soaked in the Spanish sun, this wine is completed after a staggering long-term aging process of over 60 months. It features a complex aroma of dried fruits, mushrooms, and black tea, with a silky mouthfeel.
XISTO Reserva Barrel Selected
- Release Date: April 28 (Tuesday)
- Price: 1,090 yen (1,199 yen tax incl. / approx. $8.00)
- Region: Nationwide (Japan)
- Features: Aged for at least 36 months, with 12 of those months in oak barrels. It has a robust flavor where powerful aromas of cassis and blackberry are layered with nuances of chocolate and spice.
A Diverse Lineup! All “The Drops of God” Collaboration Wines
Alongside the legendary revival, here are other collaboration wines currently available at FamilyMart in Japan. Each has been personally endorsed by the original authors.
Despagne Rouge (Red)
- Price: 1,453 yen (1,598 yen tax incl. / approx. $10.70)
- Features: A Bordeaux wine from the prestigious Despagne family. Its smoky aroma and mellow flavor beautifully complement any meal.
Despagne Blanc (White)
- Price: 1,453 yen (1,598 yen tax incl. / approx. $10.70)
- Features: A white wine also from the Despagne family. With citrus and floral notes, it offers a refreshing drink perfect for early summer.
Bellamour Premium Sparkling Wine
- Price: 980 yen (1,078 yen tax incl. / approx. $7.20)
- Features: A high-value sparkling wine where 6 months of aging provides a mellow balance with citrus-like freshness.
Fioritura
- Price: 908 yen (998 yen tax incl. / approx. $6.70)
- Features: Characterized by a gorgeous aroma like tropical fruits. It pairs excellently with salty snacks like prosciutto or even desserts.
Citran Bordeaux
- Price: 1,635 yen (1,798 yen tax incl. / approx. $12.00)
- Features: Supervised by the historic Château Citran. This special Bordeaux was selected specifically for FamilyMart Japan.
Château du Lagon
- Price: 1,090 yen (1,199 yen tax incl. / approx. $8.00)
- Features: A red wine primarily made from Merlot. It has an outstanding balance of sweet vanilla-like aroma, soft acidity, and rich fruitiness.
Core Sauvignon Blanc
- Price: 1,453 yen (1,598 yen tax incl. / approx. $10.70)
- Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
- Features: Offers a crispness like green apples, making it a perfect match for seafood dishes.
Le Petit Arbusier
- Price: 980 yen (1,078 yen tax incl. / approx. $7.20)
- Features: Crafted by French winemaker Alain Brumont. Using the rare “Tannat” variety, it offers a powerful and rich flavor profile.
Verdi
- Price: 800 yen (880 yen tax incl. / approx. $5.90)
- Features: A sparkling wine made from Italian grapes. Fresh aromas of lemon and lime quench your thirst.
Eirene Pinot Noir
- Price: 1,453 yen (1,598 yen tax incl. / approx. $10.70)
- Region: Central Otago, New Zealand
- Features: A luxurious Pinot Noir with gorgeous strawberry and berry aromas paired with elegant acidity.
A Series First! Highball Cans by the Famous Nagahama Distillery
It’s not just about wine. For the first time in the series, a canned “Highball” (whisky mixed with soda) is joining the lineup. This is a highly anticipated product merging Japanese whisky culture with The Drops of God.
AMAHAGAN Highball Edition Kami no Shizuku (Can)
- Release Date: April 28, 2026 (Tuesday)
- Price: 328 yen (360 yen tax incl. / approx. $2.40)
- Features: Produced by the Nagahama Distillery in Shiga Prefecture. The base whisky is aged in barrels previously used for the wines featured in the manga, resulting in a fruity sweetness and depth derived from the wine casks.
FamilyMart’s “Ichiban Challenge” Never Stops
FamilyMart, which will celebrate its 45th anniversary in September 2026, is promoting its new slogan: “Making Many of Your Number Ones—The ‘Ichiban Challenge’.” The revival of this collaboration wine is one of the challenges aimed at delivering “the best deliciousness” to customers.
It is remarkable that such high-quality wine is available 24 hours a day during your stay in Japan, and at an affordable price around $10. Be sure to try it as a treat for yourself or for your dinner in Japan.
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