Some umeshu on the market claim to be sugar-free, but they often sneak in honey or artificial sweeteners instead of rock sugar—so they’re still sweet in the end. It’s hard to break free from the ingrained idea that “umeshu must be sweet.” But when it comes to a truly sugar-free umeshu, Benichu 38% is the first, and as far as I know, still the only one available.

Benichu is a “trendy” name in the world of umeshu, daring to challenge the no-sugar category precisely because it carries no historical baggage. Anyone who’s made umeshu knows that plums themselves are quite tart and astringent, so creating an enjoyable flavor without any added sugar is extremely difficult. Maintaining a high alcohol content and spirit-like quality without sugar is even costlier. Given all these challenges, the performance of Benichu 38% makes it especially intriguing.

On the nose, it’s unmistakably a spirit—intense plum aroma mingling with the alcohol, creating a striking fragrance. Take a sip, and the total absence of sweetness is a real shock! The intense tartness of plum hits your palate like eating salted sour plums, making your mouth water uncontrollably. The 38% alcohol then delivers a lingering, tart plum finish that’s seriously satisfying! The initial hit of astringency is bold, but by the second sip, once your palate has adjusted, you may even notice a clean, subtle plum sweetness. This umeshu might not be for everyone, but for me, it’s one of the most unique drinking experiences I’ve ever had.

Powerfully tart and robust, if you ever find yourself overwhelmed by the sugar content in most umeshu, Benichu 38% is an excellent choice.