Guys,

There is another area for ceramics which is far less touristy than the Kyomizu-tera slopes. Now, the only reason why I know this is that I happened to date the daughter of a local family in the tea "business". I don't even remember the name of the area but it's east of Kyomizu-tera and accessible through a road tunnel. Most of the high-end shops are there, but it's also possible to buy more "industrial" ceramics.

I'll get back to the Wine/Washoku theme later. Have to organize a visa to Russia just now.