Matsui Umeshu Fruit Liqueur with Japanese Brandy
Matsui Umeshu Fruit Liqueur with Japanese Brandy is Japan's classic plum liqueur built on the Kurayoshi Distillery's own spirit — fine Japanese plums macerated in pot-distilled, lightly aged brandy made at Matsui Shuzo in Tottori, bottled at 14% ABV in a 700mL bottle. Soft groundwater from Mount Daisen and shelf-stable craftsmanship give it a rich, full-bodied character with an elegant aftertaste. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 14% — 700mL
- Distillery: Kurayoshi Distillery (Matsui Shuzo), Tottori, Japan
- Base: Japanese ume plums in house pot-distilled brandy
- Water: soft groundwater from Mount Daisen
- Awards: Chairman's Trophy + Top 100, 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge; Gold, 2020 SFWSC
Plum Liqueur, Brandy Soul
Most umeshu is macerated in neutral spirit — Matsui's is fortified with brandy the distillery pots and lightly ages itself, which is why the importer's notes describe it as rounder and lower-toned than its whisky-fortified sibling: fruit leather and prune, black cherry and brown sugar on the nose, giving way to caramelized pineapple, sultana raisin, and lemon curd with a gentle pickled-plum acidity. The 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge agreed, awarding it a Chairman's Trophy and a Top 100 Spirits place. Discover more fruit liqueurs or browse everything from Matsui at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Light amber; stewed plum, black tea, lavender, and vanilla on the nose. The palate blends tart and sweet — fresh and roasted plum, molasses, nuts, a savory umami note — with a long, aromatic finish.
How to Enjoy
Best chilled, over ice, or with a splash of soda water; the importer also suggests it with hot or cold tea, or in stirred cocktails that need subtle acidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is umeshu?
Umeshu is Japanese plum liqueur — ume plums macerated in distilled spirit with sugar, producing a sweet-tart, fruity liqueur enjoyed across Japan.
Is this umeshu made with brandy?
Yes — unlike most umeshu built on neutral spirit, this one is fortified with brandy pot-distilled and lightly aged by Matsui's Kurayoshi Distillery.
How strong is it?
14% ABV — a gentle liqueur strength, lighter than wine-adjacent pours and ideal for relaxed sipping.
A trophy-winning plum liqueur with a brandy heart — order Matsui Umeshu with Japanese Brandy from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.