Kaga Umeshu

An acclaimed Japanese plum liqueur made exclusively with rare Hokuriku-grown Benisashi plums and matured for approximately two years, combining a concentrated plum aroma, generous richness and a remarkably clear palate.

Description

Kaga Umeshu is an award-winning Japanese plum liqueur produced by Manzairaku at the foothills of Mount Hakusan in Ishikawa Prefecture. Manzairaku has been producing this expression since 1990, creating an umeshu that combines a concentrated plum aroma, substantial richness and a clean, clear drinking experience.

It is made exclusively with Benisashi plums cultivated in Japan’s Hokuriku region. These rare plums are prized for their natural richness in amino acids and minerals and for the savoury depth and rounded character they contribute to the finished liqueur.

Cultivation, steeping, maturation and bottling are all undertaken within Hokuriku. The umeshu is matured for approximately two years, allowing its fragrance, flavour and texture to develop into the harmonious balance intended by the producer.

The Benisashi Plum

Benisashi is a premium plum variety indigenous to the Hokuriku region. Its name refers to the reddish colour that appears on the surface of the fruit as it ripens.

According to Manzairaku, Benisashi contains more amino acids than common premium varieties such as Nanko ume. This gives the fruit notable umami, richness and roundness, and it is also valued as an ingredient for premium umeboshi.

Benisashi is especially difficult to cultivate. The same section of a branch bears fruit only once every three years, and its overall yield is lower than that of more common plum varieties, making it particularly rare.

Production and Maturation

Kaga Umeshu is made using Benisashi plums, rock sugar and brewing alcohol. Manzairaku also identifies underground water from the Tedorigawa River system as its preparation water.

The plums are handled using traditional, rustic production methods. The finished liqueur is then matured for approximately two years until its fragrance and flavour reach the desired balance.

The natural environment surrounding Mount Hakusan plays an important role in Manzairaku’s production. Snowmelt from the mountain is naturally filtered over many years, providing the region with the clear water for which its brewing tradition is known.

Official Taste Profile

Kaga Umeshu combines a dense, concentrated plum aroma with deep richness and a clean, clear palate. Its extended maturation creates a harmonious balance between fragrance and flavour while preserving the distinct character of the Benisashi plum.

Official Recognition

• Ranked No. 1 nationwide in the Nihon Keizai Shimbun “NIKKEI Plus 1 Anything Ranking” published on 13 August 2005
• Served in First Class on ANA North American and European routes and in ANA international lounges
• Selected for the Nobel NightCap held after the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm on 10 December 2013
• Kura Master 2023 – Prix Alliance Gastronomie
• International Spirits Challenge 2024 – Silver, Liqueurs & Specialities
• International Wine & Spirit Competition 2024 – Silver
• International Wine & Spirit Competition 2025 – Silver
• National Umeshu Competition 2025 – Bronze, White Liquor Umeshu Division

Official Ways to Enjoy

• Over ice
• Diluted with water
• Diluted with hot water
• With soda water
• In cocktails

BBPH Serving Suggestions

• Serve well chilled in a small liqueur or white-wine glass.
• Pour over one large ice cube for slow, controlled dilution.
• Lengthen with chilled soda water for a refreshing aperitif.
• Use as the plum component in highballs and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
• Refrigerate after opening and keep the bottle tightly sealed.

These serving suggestions are provided by Barrels & Beyond PH and are supplemental to Manzairaku’s official recommendations.

BBPH Food Pairing Suggestions

• Yakitori and other charcoal-grilled dishes
• Karaage or crisp fried chicken
• Roast duck or glazed pork
• Rich pâtés and foie gras preparations
• Blue cheese, aged Cheddar or creamy washed-rind cheese
• Almond pastries and fruit tarts
• Cheesecake, panna cotta or vanilla ice cream
• Fresh stone fruit and lightly sweetened desserts

These pairings are suggested by Barrels & Beyond PH and are not presented as official Manzairaku recommendations.

Technical Information

• Producer: Manzairaku Sake Kura Co., Ltd.
• Official Product Name: Kaga Umeshu
• Category: Umeshu / Japanese plum liqueur
• Country: Japan
• Region: Hokuriku
• Prefecture: Ishikawa
• Producer Location: Hakusan City
• Plum Variety: Benisashi
• Plum Origin: Hokuriku, Japan
• Plum Content: 100% Benisashi plum
• Ingredients: Benisashi plum, rock sugar and brewing alcohol
• Preparation Water: Tedorigawa River-system underground water
• Maturation: Approximately two years
• Alcohol Content: 14% ABV
• Production Since: 1990
• Available Sizes: 180ml, 300ml, 720ml and 1800ml

Official Packaging Information

• 180ml: Gift wrapping is not available from the producer
• 300ml: Supplied in an individual box
• 720ml: Supplied in an individual box
• 1800ml: Supplied without an individual box

Packaging supplied with BBPH stock should be confirmed against the specific size and shipment purchased.

About Manzairaku

Manzairaku Sake Kura was established during Japan’s Edo period, between 1716 and 1734, in Tsurugi at the foothills of Mount Hakusan in Ishikawa Prefecture.

The name Manzairaku comes from a traditional Gagaku composition performed with music and dance at auspicious celebrations. The brewery continues this association with joyful occasions through its commitment to carefully selected ingredients, regional character and consistent quality.