To put it simply: “This is the least sweet sweet umeshu I’ve ever tasted!”
Many people love the tangy aroma of plums but shy away from umeshu because it’s often too sweet. While sugar-free versions do exist, if a plum wine lacks any hint of sweetness, it can become overly tart and astringent. Enter Benichu 20%—a micro-sweet style that keeps the sugar to a minimum. The plum flavor is strong, but it never gets uncomfortably sour. Even those who don’t like sweet drinks can enjoy this again and again!

On the nose, you’re greeted with a mouthwatering, tangy plum fragrance. The palate is relatively dry; the sweetness is just enough to balance out the plum’s acidity, resulting in a perfectly harmonious sweet-sour profile. The finish lingers with a subtle, pleasantly bitter tartness, adding complexity and a sophisticated touch—this really feels like an “adult’s umeshu.”

Additionally, this umeshu is perfect for pairing with meals. The plum acidity not only stimulates the appetite but also cuts through oily dishes, making it easy to enjoy glass after glass without ever feeling overwhelmed by sweetness.

Benichu is a “trendy” name in the umeshu world, founded in Fukui Prefecture in 2000. With no old-fashioned baggage, the brand is always innovating, both in packaging and in flavor. All their main products use Fukui’s premium Benio ume plums, with little or no added sugar, emphasizing the vibrant tartness of ripe plums—perfect for those who love plum flavor but not sweetness.

If you’re looking for an umeshu that’s low in sugar and easy to drink, Benichu 20% is your best choice.