Yamazaki Whisky Cask-Aged Umeshu Plum Liqueur 14% 660ml

A beautifully crafted Japanese plum liqueur from the legendary Yamazaki distillery, this umeshu is steeped and matured in toasted refill casks that previously held Yamazaki whisky. The wood contact is what sets it apart — the spent whisky casks lend the liqueur a profound, fragrant complexity and an aroma faintly reminiscent of malt whisky, while the toasting brings warm, rounded oak character that ordinary umeshu simply can't achieve. The result is a plum liqueur of moderate sweetness and remarkable depth, marrying traditional ume fruit with the Western cask-craft Suntory has perfected over generations.

Rich amber in the glass and wonderfully versatile, this is a sophisticated take on a Japanese classic that will appeal equally to umeshu lovers and whisky drinkers — fans of cask-aged Suntory expressions will recognise the family resemblance. It makes an elegant aperitif or digestif and is supremely easy to enjoy across a range of serves.

Tasting Notes
The nose is generous and inviting, with overripe stone fruits, caramel, a touch of brandy and a thread of manuka honey. The palate is rounded and gently sweet — ripe ume plum and sweetly scented brown sugar layered with delicate oak and a whisper of Yamazaki malt. It finishes with a silky mouthfeel and a soft, rich, lingering aftertaste.

Serves Best With
Wonderfully flexible. Serve simply over a large block of ice to savour its cask-driven depth, or lengthen it with chilled soda water (around 1 part umeshu to 2 parts soda) and a slice of lemon for a refreshing highball-style serve. It's also lovely with hot or cold water in cooler months. For a quick cocktail, try an Umeshu Sour: 60ml umeshu, 20ml fresh lemon juice and a small dash of soda, shaken over ice and strained into a rocks glass. On the table, pair with vanilla ice cream, dark chocolate, soft cheeses, or as a digestif to round off a Japanese meal.