“Lactic Acid x Umeshu”! This unheard-of flavor combination piqued our curiosity, and with high expectations for something quirky, we gave it a try—only to be pleasantly surprised! The brewery named this umeshu “Uchūboshi” (“Star in the Universe”) hoping it would shine as brightly as a star. With its deep blue bottle and bold star on the label, the look is definitely striking… but honestly, the flavor is even more unforgettable. After one sip, you won’t forget either the unique taste—or the name, Uchūboshi!

First, try it chilled and neat: the liquid is a milky, translucent white—very appealing. On the nose, you get plum at first, then a strong lactic aroma, and together they almost evoke almond tea. The palate is moderately sweet, with pronounced lactic notes and delicate plum aroma—a combination that’s surprisingly delicious! Add a little ice to temper the sweetness, and it becomes even more drinkable. With 8% ABV and absolutely no alcoholic harshness, it’s a sweet and tangy drink perfect for relaxing and chatting after a meal—truly enjoyable!

Mix it 1:1 with soda water, and your glass becomes filled with milky-white bubbles, offering a homemade cocktail vibe. The aroma shifts to crisp lactic notes, and the palate becomes refreshingly lightly sweet, with lactic acid flavor up front and plum as a subtle background note. It’s simple, direct, and you could easily knock back several glasses in summer!

This umeshu is made by Kenyo in Fukuoka, a collaboration between two renowned breweries: “Mii no Kotobuki” and “Niwa no Uguisu.” Kenyo’s flagship is “fully roasted barley shochu,” famous for its roasted and chocolatey notes. It’s amazing that a brewery known for such robust spirits can also produce such a soft, easy-drinking liqueur! Enjoy it neat or with soda—fun, interesting, and easy to love!