Heiwa Shuzou Tsuru-Ume Suppai opens with a vivid, inviting aroma of ripe Japanese plums — rich, tangy, with a pronounced acidic lift that hints at its suppai (sour) character. On the palate, the concentrated plum fruit unfolds with a refreshing balance of bright acidity and subtle sweetness, giving a classic ume-driven umeshu profile that feels vibrant and lively. The texture is smooth but expressive, with layers of juicy plum, slight berry-like notes, and hints of citrus zest that add complexity without overwhelming the palate. The mouthfeel remains beautifully integrated, showing a harmony between delicate rice undertones and bold plum intensity. The finish lingers with a clean, tangy sweetness that makes this umeshu easy to sip across a range of occasions. Overall, it’s a spirited and fruit-forward expression that highlights the quintessential Japanese plum wine experience.

The Estate

Heiwa Shuzou — established in 1928 just outside Kainan City in Wakayama — blends traditional sake craftsmanship with regional botanical inspirations, creating unique fruit-focused expressions under the Tsuru-Ume banner. The Tsuru-Ume Suppai embodies this ethos, marrying lush Wakayama plums with sake base for a bold, balanced ume wine.

Production Process

Tsuru-Ume Suppai begins with a sake foundation that is then infused with a significantly generous amount of local Nankobai plums, a premium plum variety known for its rich flavor and soft skin. The fruit are macerated to extract robust plum character, acidity, and natural sugars, resulting in a nuanced umeshu with both tart brightness and subtle sweetness. This traditional plum wine process reflects Heiwa’s collaboration with local growers and its commitment to expressing Wakayama’s terroir through sake and fruit.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, either neat in a short glass to appreciate its depth of flavor or over ice for a refreshing, lighter experience. Tsuru-Ume Suppai also makes a delightful highball when topped with soda water — perfect for brunch or warm weather gatherings. Pair it with grilled meats, rich Asian dishes like Mapo tofu, or sharp cheeses to balance its fruity acidity and sweetness.

• Available Size: 720mL (12 pc)  
• Screw-Cap
• Type: Sake
• Sub-type: Sake
• ABV%: 11