Crafted with 80% Omachi sake rice as daiginjo and blended with 20% of their own umeshu, this is a flavor profile you’ve likely never encountered—intense, complex Omachi character meets the gentle sweetness of plum wine. This is “Baika Daigin,” our featured bottle today!

This special release was conceived by Takashimaya, the leading Japanese department store group, in collaboration with Muromachi Shuzo—an expert brewer of Omachi sake. Made in small batches, it was exclusively available in Takashimaya stores. After finally getting to try it, I couldn’t stop thinking about it, and managed to secure a small batch—don’t miss out if you’re interested!

Pour it chilled into a glass, and the aroma is pure daiginjo—soft rice sweetness. On the palate, it starts round and mellow, dominated by gentle rice sweetness and umami. Mid-palate, the plum sweetness begins to emerge, blending beautifully with the rice character in a surprisingly harmonious way. The finish brings out a refreshing plum acidity with a touch of lemon brightness. The overall experience is highly layered and complex—a truly exceptional bottle!

Muromachi Shuzo is located in Akaiwa, Okayama Prefecture, famed for producing Omachi sake rice. Akaiwa…Omachi…sound familiar? Yes, Okayama is the birthplace of Omachi rice, and Muromachi Shuzo is surrounded by the prized Omachi fields. For over 300 years, they have specialized in brewing with Akaiwa Omachi, making them true masters of this rice. Their expertise with Omachi is what makes this blend so successful!

Baika Daigin is now sold out at all Takashimaya stores—who knows when it will be available again. If you want to experience a sake-style umeshu crafted by Omachi experts, don’t hesitate—order now!