Japanese Umeshu

Japanese fruit sake, also known as “umeshu,” is a unique and delicious alcoholic beverage that has been enjoyed by Japanese people for centuries. It is a type of liqueur that is made by steeping Japanese plums, also known as “ume,” in sugar and shochu or sake. The result is a sweet and tangy drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. In this article, we will explore the history of Japanese fruit sake, the different types of umeshu, how it’s made, and how to enjoy this delicious drink.

 

History of Japanese Fruit Sake

Japanese fruit sake has a long and rich history that dates back to the 8th century. It is said that the first umeshu was created by a Japanese physician named Sugawara no Michizane, who lived during the Heian period. Michizane was known for his love of ume, and he created a medicinal drink by steeping the fruit in sake. This drink was said to have healing properties and was used to treat various ailments.

Over time, the popularity of umeshu grew, and it became a favorite drink of the nobility during the Edo period. It was also enjoyed by samurai warriors, who believed that the drink gave them strength and courage. Today, umeshu is enjoyed by people of all ages and is a popular drink during the summer months.

 

How Japanese Fruit Sake is Made

Japanese fruit sake is made by steeping Japanese plums, also known as ume, in alcohol and sugar. The type of alcohol used can vary, but shochu or sake are the most commonly used. The plums are harvested in early summer when they are still green and firm, and they are washed and dried before being placed in a jar or bottle with the alcohol and sugar.

The mixture is then left to steep for several months, typically three to six months, depending on the desired flavor. During this time, the flavors of the plums are extracted and combined with the alcohol and sugar, resulting in a sweet and tangy liqueur.

After the steeping process is complete, the umeshu is strained and bottled. Some varieties of umeshu are aged for several years, resulting in a smoother and more complex flavor.

 

Different Types of Japanese Fruit Sake

There are many different types of Japanese fruit sake, each with its own unique flavor and character. Here are some of the most popular varieties:

Traditional Umeshu – This is the most common type of umeshu, made by steeping ume fruit in shochu or sake and sugar. The resulting drink is sweet and tart, with a distinctive plum flavor.

White Peach Umeshu – This type of umeshu is made by steeping white peaches in shochu or sake and sugar. It has a sweet and refreshing taste, with a hint of peach flavor.

Yuzu Umeshu – Yuzu is a type of Japanese citrus fruit that has a tart and tangy flavor. Yuzu umeshu is made by steeping yuzu fruit in shochu or sake and sugar, resulting in a sweet and sour drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot day.

Strawberry Umeshu – Strawberry umeshu is made by steeping fresh strawberries in shochu or sake and sugar. It has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of tartness from the ume fruit.

Plum Wine – Plum wine, also known as “ume wine” or “umeshu wine,” is made by fermenting ume fruit with sugar and yeast. The resulting drink is more like a wine than a liqueur, and it has a higher alcohol content than traditional umeshu.

 

How to Enjoy Japanese Fruit Sake

Japanese fruit sake is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some tips on how to enjoy this delicious beverage:

Sip it on its own – Japanese fruit sake is delicious when sipped on its own, served over ice or at room temperature. This is the perfect way to enjoy the full flavor and aroma of the drink.

Mix it with soda – For a refreshing and bubbly drink, mix Japanese fruit sake with soda water or tonic water. This is a great option for those who prefer a lighter, less sweet drink.

Make a cocktail – Japanese fruit sake can be used in many different cocktail recipes, adding a unique flavor and sweetness to the drink. Some popular cocktails include the Umeshu Sour, made with lemon juice and simple syrup, and the Umeshu Collins, made with soda water and lemon juice.

Use it as a marinade – Japanese fruit sake can also be used as a marinade for meats, fish, and vegetables. The sweetness of the umeshu pairs well with salty and savory flavors, creating a delicious and flavorful dish.

Pair it with food – Japanese fruit sake pairs well with a variety of foods, including sushi, tempura, and grilled meats. Its sweetness and acidity can help to balance out rich and savory flavors, making it a great accompaniment to many different dishes.

 

In Conclusion

Japanese fruit sake, or umeshu, is a delicious and unique drink that has a long and rich history in Japan. It is made by steeping Japanese plums in alcohol and sugar, resulting in a sweet and tangy liqueur that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. There are many different types of umeshu, each with its own unique flavor and character, and it can be enjoyed in many different ways, from sipping it on its own to using it as a marinade for meats and vegetables. If you haven’t tried Japanese fruit sake before, it’s definitely worth giving it a try and exploring the different varieties and flavors that this delicious drink has to offer.

 

Here are some delicious umeshu cocktail recipes to try:

 

Umeshu Sour

Ingredients:

2 oz umeshu
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Ice
Lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions:

In a shaker, combine the umeshu, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.

Shake vigorously until well combined and chilled.

Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy!

 

Umeshu Collins

Ingredients:

2 oz umeshu
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Club soda
Ice
Lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions:

In a shaker, combine the umeshu, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.

Shake vigorously until well combined and chilled.

Strain the cocktail into a Collins glass filled with ice.

Top the glass with club soda.

Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy!

 

Umeshu Martini

Ingredients:

2 oz gin
1 oz umeshu
Ice
Lemon peel, for garnish
Instructions:

In a shaker, combine the gin, umeshu, and ice.

Shake vigorously until well combined and chilled.

Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with a lemon peel and enjoy!

 

Umeshu Mojito

Ingredients:

2 oz white rum
1 oz umeshu
1 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Club soda
Fresh mint leaves
Ice
Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, muddle a few mint leaves with the umeshu, lime juice, and simple syrup.

Add the white rum and ice to the shaker.

Shake vigorously until well combined and chilled.

Strain the cocktail into a Collins glass filled with ice.

Top the glass with club soda.

Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge and enjoy!

 

Umeshu Fizz

Ingredients:

2 oz umeshu
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
1 egg white
Club soda
Ice
Lemon peel, for garnish
Instructions:

In a shaker, combine the umeshu, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
Shake vigorously without ice for about 10-15 seconds, then add ice and shake again until well combined and chilled.
Strain the cocktail into a Collins glass filled with ice.
Top the glass with club soda.
Garnish with a lemon peel and enjoy!

 

These are just a few examples of umeshu cocktail recipes that you can try. Feel free to experiment and come up with your own creations, using umeshu as a base for a unique and delicious drink. Cheers!