Umeshu: A Gentle Introduction to Japanese Drinking Culture
Umeshu is often one of the first Japanese drinks people fall in love with, and it’s easy to see why.
Soft, fragrant, and quietly expressive, this Japanese plum liqueur offers a different way to experience Japanese drinking culture — one that’s relaxed, approachable, and meant to be enjoyed at your own pace.
Made by steeping ume plums in alcohol and sugar, Umeshu is not wine, and not quite a spirit either. It sits comfortably in between, offering sweetness without heaviness and flavour without intensity.
More Than Just Sweet
While Umeshu is often described as sweet, the best examples are defined by balance. The natural tartness of the ume plum brings structure and freshness, preventing the sweetness from becoming overpowering.
Depending on the style, you may find notes of ripe stone fruit, gentle acidity, almond-like nuances from the plum kernel, or a soft, lingering finish that invites another sip rather than demanding one.
This balance is what makes Umeshu so easy to enjoy, even for those who don’t usually drink sake or spirits.
When to Enjoy Umeshu
Umeshu fits effortlessly into many moments. It works beautifully as an aperitif before a meal, gently opening the palate without overwhelming it. After dinner, it becomes a calm and comforting way to finish the evening, especially when shared.
Because it doesn’t demand attention, Umeshu suits quiet nights, slow conversations, and relaxed gatherings where the drink supports the moment rather than dominating it.
How Umeshu Is Commonly Served
Umeshu is traditionally enjoyed in simple ways that allow its character to shine. Served chilled or over ice, it feels clean and composed. Mixed lightly with soda, it becomes softer and more casual. Some styles can even be enjoyed gently warmed, bringing out a rounder sweetness and deeper aroma.
Exploring Umeshu at Sake Selector
At Sake Selector, we offer a carefully chosen range of Umeshu styles, from classic expressions to more modern interpretations. Each bottle reflects a different approach to balance, sweetness, and aroma.
If you’re curious about Japanese drinks but want something relaxed and welcoming, Umeshu is a wonderful place to begin — and one that many people return to again and again.
Umeshu Bairi
Bairi is a premium plum wine made from carefully selected Japanese plums blended with Junmai sake brewed using rare Kamikohara rice from Ishikawa. Rich and luscious, it delivers ripe plum aromas layered with the depth of quality sake, yet finishes clean with a balanced sweetness and acidity.
Versatile and elegant, it can be enjoyed on the rocks, with soda, or warm, and its refined bottle design also makes it an excellent gift.
Umeshu Love＆Sweet
Crafted with junmai sake, this umeshu is made with a deep focus on flavour. Using only high-quality crystal rock sugar and 100% Kishu Nanko plums from JA Kinan, it brings out the rich umami of both the plums and the junmai sake. Since this umeshu has a sake base, we highly recommend enjoying it warm.
Simply heat water in a pot and place a mug filled with umeshu inside to gently warm it—perfect for a cosy experience. Of course, it’s also delicious on the rocks, with water, or straight!
Choya Black Sugar Umeshu
Choya Kokuto Umeshu is a premium plum liqueur made by the renowned Choya Umeshu Co., crafted with rich brown sugar for a unique flavour and smooth finish. Highly regarded among umeshu enthusiasts, it offers a refined taste that pairs beautifully with both savoury dishes and desserts.
Perfect for special occasions, parties, or casual meals, this umeshu also makes a thoughtful gift. Experience its distinctive character and silky texture, and share this exceptional liqueur with someone special.
Sui Ume
Freshly harvested fully ripened plums are immediately prepared and slowly infused for about six months to extract their rich essence.
Sui Umeshu is made with over twice the usual amount of plums, resulting in a luxurious, intensely flavoured umeshu with a bold acidity and deep richness.
Nami no oto Ume Honoka
This umeshu is made with sake, creating a uniquely smooth and mellow finish.
A refined Japanese liqueur with a well-balanced sweetness, it is best enjoyed on the rocks.
