My name is Kitamura, and I’m the store manager at Choya Kamakura, a shop dedicated to the ume-making experience.

For “My Favorite” this time, I’d like to share the combination of Organic Nanko × Rock sugar × Vodka.

More than Just Sourness — The Refreshing Aroma of Ume

This pairing was actually the very first umeshu I ever made when I joined Choya. At that time, I had never tasted homemade umeshu before, and when I tried this one, I was truly moved. Above all, the flavor of ume struck me immediately. The first words that came out of my mouth were simply: “Ume!!”

With just one sip, the fresh aroma and tartness of ume spread across the palate. By choosing simple rock sugar and vodka—a spirit with no distinct flavor—the pure character of ume was drawn out beautifully, creating an exquisite glass of umeshu.

Organic Nanko — Perfectly Balanced Sweetness and Acidity

Organic Nanko is an ume we’ve been cultivating together with farmers in Wakayama for more than 20 years. While it’s the same variety as our Fully-ripened Nanko, Organic Nanko is harvested about one week to ten days earlier. This gives it a calm, traditional fragrance reminiscent of sakura mochi.

Special care is taken in pruning branches and leaves so that the fruit can catch the sunlight and blush slightly red. Not only is this beautiful and photogenic, but red-hued ume are also said to contain higher amounts of citric acid and polyphenols.

[Recommended Way to Drink ①] With Kimchi Hotpot — Refreshing Soda Mix

On a weekend with kimchi hotpot, the gentle sweetness and tartness of Organic Nanko umeshu, combined with the crisp bubbles of soda, refresh both the body and palate after a little spice and warmth.

Ratio: Umeshu 1 : Soda 2

[Recommended Way to Drink ②] Cozy and Warm — Umeshu with Hot Water

On a quiet winter weekend at home, why not enjoy umeshu with hot water? Whether as an afternoon companion with a snack or after dinner, a warm glass of umeshu gently warms the body and offers a mild, pleasant buzz thanks to its lower alcohol content. It’s the perfect way to savor slow, cozy moments unique to days off.

Ratio: Umeshu 1 : Hot water 3

If you try this combination, I’d be delighted to hear your thoughts—whether directly at our store or through social media.

I hope you’ll also enjoy a relaxing time at home with Organic Nanko × Rock sugar × Vodka umeshu.