Craft Umeshu Brands to Watch in 2025 and Beyond
Introduction
In recent years, umeshu—Japanese plum wine—has evolved far beyond its traditional roots. Once known primarily as a sweet, casual liqueur served in izakaya, umeshu is now making waves in the world of premium craft beverages.
A new generation of small and mid-sized breweries across Japan is reshaping the perception of umeshu. Using carefully selected ume fruit, innovative aging techniques, and regional ingredients, these producers are elevating the drink into an artisanal product that rivals sake and whisky in complexity.
In this blog, we’ll introduce some of the most exciting craft umeshu brands to watch in 2025, highlight what makes them unique, and show you where to taste or buy them.
Why Craft Umeshu Is Growing
Quality Over Quantity
Modern drinkers are increasingly favoring quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship. This trend has given rise to umeshu brands that value small-batch production, hand-selected fruit, and chemical-free processes.
Regional Pride
Breweries are leaning into local identity. From Wakayama’s famed Nanko ume to Kyoto’s elegant design culture, craft umeshu producers are expressing regional flavors and stories through their bottles.
Export-Ready Branding
With international demand growing, many brands are updating their packaging, translations, and export licenses to reach European, U.S., and Asian markets.
Top Craft Umeshu Brands in Japan
1. Nakano BC (Wakayama)
Nakano BC is based in Japan’s ume capital—Wakayama—and is renowned for its traditional yet refined umeshu. They use premium Nanko-ume and offer aged varieties up to 10 years. Their lineup includes:
- Koshu Junmai Umeshu (aged and rich)
- Umeshu with yuzu infusion
- Barrel-aged umeshu for whisky lovers
Where to buy: Department stores in Kansai region or online via Rakuten.
2. Choya Craft Series (Osaka)
Choya is Japan’s best-known umeshu brand, but its Craft Series offers a high-end take. Made in limited quantities with 100% Japanese ingredients and no added flavoring, the Craft Series includes:
- Gold Edition: Oak-aged with a smooth finish
- Organic Umeshu: Made from certified organic ume
Where to try: Choya Umeshu Salon in Osaka or at specialty liquor stores.
3. Heiwa Shuzo (Wakayama)
Heiwa Shuzo is the maker of the popular “KID” sake line, but they also produce exquisite umeshu under the same philosophy—clean, minimal, elegant. Highlights include:
- Tsuru-ume series (classic and seasonal)
- Umeshu with Green Tea infusion
Where to buy: Premium sake bars in Tokyo and direct from Heiwa’s online store.
4. Nara Toyosawa Shuzo (Nara)
This historic brewery has embraced modern branding while sticking to traditional fermentation. Their umeshu is:
- Made from hand-picked local ume
- Brewed with soft Nara mountain water
- Packaged in elegant, minimalist bottles
Best for: Drinkers seeking mild sweetness and subtle aroma.
5. Kyoto Meijo (Kyoto)
Known for their elegant sake, Kyoto Meijo’s umeshu offerings mirror the region’s refinement. They often blend Kyoto-grown ume with premium sake bases, resulting in:
- Low-alcohol umeshu with clean finish
- Limited seasonal batches
Where to try: Upscale izakaya and hotel bars in Kyoto.
Honorable Mentions
- Tsukino Katsura (Kyoto): Umeshu made with sparkling sake
- Miyako Bijin (Hyogo): Organic rice-based umeshu with minimal sugar
- Gekkeikan (Kyoto): Classic brand offering premium aged options in its Heritage Series
Where to Try Craft Umeshu in Japan
- Tokyo: Umeshu specialty bars in Ebisu, Shinjuku Golden Gai
- Osaka: Choya Umeshu Salon (tasting + food pairing)
- Kyoto: Gion and Pontocho bars offering seasonal umeshu menus
- Wakayama: Direct tours and tasting at breweries like Nakano BC
Tips for Buying Craft Umeshu Abroad
If you’re based outside Japan:
- Look for online Japanese alcohol retailers with English support
- Choose bottles that list the ume origin (Wakayama is a good sign)
- Prefer aged or small-batch labeled varieties for higher quality
- Check for air freight or refrigerated shipping options
Final Thoughts
Craft umeshu is more than a trend—it’s a cultural shift. As Japanese consumers and international drinkers seek authenticity, tradition, and innovation in a glass, umeshu is stepping confidently onto the global stage.
Whether you enjoy it over ice, in a cocktail, or neat like a fine whisky, Japan’s new generation of plum wine is ready to surprise you. 2025 is the perfect year to rediscover umeshu in its most refined form.
For more guides and listings of authentic food and drink experiences in Japan, visit Jasumo.com.
