Yamaguchi Shuzo Niwa No Uguisu Tomari Umeshu - 720 ml
- Online: Available
- In-Store Stock Now: 8 units.
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Product description
Produced by Yamaguchi Shuzojo, an eleven-generation family brewery established in 1832, this umeshu is named "Niwa no Uguisu" (Nightingale’s Garden). The name honors the birds that frequent the brewery's garden to drink its exceptionally pure water. This "Tomari" expression is distinct for its use of kasutori shochu—a spirit distilled from sake lees—rather than the neutral spirits often found in commercial plum wines.
Description
This premium umeshu presents a refined, dry-tasting profile that sets it apart from mass-market versions. It is crafted by steeping hand-selected green plums (typically Ome or Oshuku varieties) in the brewery's own shochu for roughly 10 months. The nose is fragrant and elegant, offering scents of sweet almond and fresh, tart plums. On the palate, it is silky and finessed, balancing the natural acidity of the fruit with a rich plum extract and a clean, lengthy finish. ABV 12%.
Food Pairing
The dryness and bright acidity of Tomari Umeshu make it an incredibly versatile "foodie's best friend". It pairs elegantly with rich appetizers like foie gras, charcuterie, and aged cheeses. For main courses, it complements savory-sweet glazes such as Hoisin-based ribs or glazed chicken. It also shines alongside traditional Japanese desserts like almond tofu or French-style clafoutis. It is best served chilled, on the rocks, or as a highball mixed with soda water to emphasize its crisp tingle.