Sweet, tangy, and uniquely Japanese, umeshu (梅酒) is taking the global cocktail scene by storm. But is it the same as regular plum wine? Why is Choya so famous? And how do you drink it properly? This guide covers everything from traditional serving styles to modern mixology tricks, plus the 5 best umeshu brands to try right now.
1. Umeshu vs. Plum Wine: Key Differences
| Category | Umeshu | Western Plum Wine |
|---|---|---|
| Base Spirit | Shochu/white liquor (35% ABV+) | Fermented plums (no added alcohol) |
| Sugar Content | Very sweet (20–30% sugar) | Varies (dry to sweet) |
| Alcohol | 10–20% ABV | 6–14% ABV |
| Flavor Profile | Intense plum, honey, almond notes | Lighter, more acidic |
| Aging | 6 months–3 years | 1–12 months |
“Umeshu is technically a liqueur, not wine—the added spirit extracts deeper flavors from the plums.” — Sake Sommelier, Tokyo
2. How to Drink Umeshu (4 Ways)
① Traditional: On the Rocks
- Best for: First-time tasters
- Ratio: 1 part umeshu : 1 part ice
- Why: Chilling balances sweetness; ideal with Choya Koshu (aged)
② Japanese Highball
- Mix: 1.5 oz umeshu + 4 oz sparkling water + lemon slice
- Pro Tip: Use soda water for dry versions, tonic for sweeter ones
③ Umeshu Sour (Cocktail)
- Recipe:
- 2 oz umeshu
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Shake with ice, strain into a coupe
④ Warm Umeshu (Winter Style)
- How: Heat 3 oz umeshu + 2 oz hot water to 60°C (140°F)
- Pair with: Grilled mochi or dark chocolate
3. Top 5 Umeshu Brands to Try
1. Choya Umeshu (Most Famous)
📍 Japan | 🍷 17% ABV | 💰 $20–$25
Why it’s iconic:
- Whole plums in bottle (eat them after drinking!)
- Available everywhere—from Costco to specialty stores
2. Takara Shuzo Umeshu (Best Premium)
📍 Japan | 🍷 15% ABV | 💰 $30–$40
Standout feature:
- Aged 3 years in oak barrels (vanilla/caramel notes)
3. Uisuki Honey Umeshu (Best for Beginners)
📍 Japan | 🍷 12% ABV | 💰 $15–$18
Perks:
- Lower alcohol, honey-smooth finish
4. Hakutsuru Umeshu (Best Budget)
📍 Japan | 🍷 10% ABV | 💰 $12–$15
Smart buy:
- Light-bodied, easy to mix
5. Yomeishu (Best Medicinal Umeshu)
📍 Japan | 🍷 14% ABV | 💰 $25–$30
Unique twist:
- Herb-infused (ginger, cinnamon)—popular for digestion
4. Umeshu FAQ
Q: Can you eat the plums in Choya bottles?
✅ Yes! Try them in yogurt or over ice cream.
Q: Is umeshu gluten-free?
⚠️ Most are (made from shochu), but check labels for barley-based versions.
Q: How long does opened umeshu last?
⏳ 1 year if refrigerated (sugar acts as a preservative).
Q: What’s the best umeshu for cocktails?
🍹 Hakutsuru—mild flavor blends well.
5. Where to Buy Umeshu
- USA: Total Wine, Costco (Choya), Asian grocery stores
- UK: Japan Centre, Amazon
- Australia: Sake Shop, Dan Murphy’s
Pro Tip: Look for “本格梅酒” (honkaku umeshu) on labels—this means “authentic.”
Final Verdict
- Best Overall: Choya Umeshu (classic, versatile)
- Best Cocktail Base: Hakutsuru (affordable, mixable)
- Best Sipper: Takara Shuzo Aged (complex, oak-influenced)
Love umeshu? Share your favorite way to drink it below! 🍶✨