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Umeyoshi

Minabe, Wakayama Prefecture

Brewery Story

Based in Minabe, Wakayama, Umeyoshi has spent more than a century celebrating the region's world-famous ume. What began with carefully tended plum orchards has grown into a business dedicated to preserving and showcasing the full potential of Kishu Nanko plums.

Across generations, the family has expanded from cultivating premium fruit into producing both umeboshi and handcrafted umeshu, always remaining true to the natural qualities of the fruit. Every bottle reflects the warmth of traditional craftsmanship and the rich agricultural heritage of Wakayama.

Brewing Philosophy and Production

At Umeyoshi, great umeshu begins in the orchard.

Only carefully grown, fully ripened Kishu Nanko plums are selected, allowing their natural sweetness, fragrance and vibrant acidity to shine. The plums are gently prepared and slowly infused in a carefully selected base spirit, with Umeyoshi using Shochu, Brandy and Awamori to create different styles and expressions.

Following maturation, each umeshu is carefully hand-filtered to preserve clarity while retaining the delicate aromas and flavours developed during infusion. Every stage reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and traditional craftsmanship.

Style and Signature Expressions

Umeyoshi creates umeshu that allows the true character of Kishu Nanko plums to shine.

The choice of base spirit plays an important role in shaping each expression. Shochu brings a clean and balanced character, Brandy adds richness and depth, while Awamori offers a distinctive complexity and fuller character.

The result is a diverse range of fruit-led umeshu, combining the natural character of Wakayama’s Kishu Nanko plums with carefully selected spirits and traditional craftsmanship.