For years, “Kohaku no Kiwami” has ranked among the most expensive umeshu on the Japanese market. Because of its high price and limited distribution channels, Mugigawa had never carried it—until recently. Thanks to a generous umeshu connoisseur who shared a bottle, I was able to experience its charms firsthand—and after just one taste, I was hooked. Driven by this discovery, I set out on a quest in Japan, and finally managed to secure it at a reasonable price.

Crafted by “Kishu Ryoumean,” a Wakayama-based umeboshi (pickled plum) specialty shop, Kohaku no Kiwami is not their main product line, but the quality is exceptional. In 2018, it triumphed in a blind tasting at the National Umeshu Competition, beating out the famed “Oyama Yumekobo” to win the top Gold Prize. What sets this umeshu apart? Let’s find out.

The name “Kohaku no Kiwami” (“Ultimate Amber”) comes from its stunning amber color. On the nose, it offers a luscious honeyed sweetness. The texture is rich and syrupy, and on the palate, waves of honey and ripe plum are quickly balanced by a gentle acidity that refreshes the palate and prevents any sense of cloying sweetness. With virtually no alcohol burn, it’s dangerously easy to enjoy glass after glass—absolutely delicious!

This is the flagship umeshu from Kishu Ryoumean, made from fully ripened Nanko plums from Wakayama, rock sugar, and aged for over 5 years before being bottled at 13% ABV as undiluted umeshu.

A hidden gem from a boutique producer, it comes beautifully packaged in a wooden box—perfect as a gift or for treating yourself. If you’re interested, don’t hesitate to order!