Eigashima - White Oak Distillery Akashi 'Ume' Plum Whisky, Japan

The Eigashima - White Oak Distillery Akashi 'Ume' Plum Whisky, Japan, offers a beautifully crafted fusion of Japanese whisky tradition and the delicate vibrancy of ume plums. This liqueur perfectly captures the balance between sweet, tart, and savory elements, making it an approachable and versatile expression that reflects the precision and elegance of Eigashima Shuzo’s meticulous craft. 

Product Details:

• Spirit: Plum Whisky Liqueur
• Producer: Eigashima Shuzo
• Owner: Eigashima Shuzo Co., Ltd.
• Distiller: Yuki Nakamura
• Region: Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
• ABV: 30.5%
• Base Spirit: Akashi Blended Whisky
• Infusion: Japanese Ume Plums & Rock Sugar
• Aging: 6–12 months in whisky barrels
• Closure: Screwcap
• Farming Practices: Conventional

Sensory Description:

The nose opens with vibrant aromas of fresh ume plums, apricot preserves, and subtle hints of honey and raisin. On the palate, layers of plum compote, sweet stone fruit, and golden syrup are balanced by a lively acidity that lifts the rich sweetness. The mouthfeel is smooth and lightly viscous, leading to a clean, bright finish with delicate notes of dried fruit and a touch of citrus zest.

Awards & Accolades:

• Double Gold - 2024 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards
• Gold - 2023 London Spirits Competition
• Gold - 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Double Gold - 2020 SIP Awards
• Silver - 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Distiller's Background:

Founded in 1888, Eigashima Shuzo is among Japan’s most historic family-run distilleries and holds Japan’s first whisky license, granted in 1919. Nestled in the coastal city of Akashi in Hyogo Prefecture, the distillery produces both sake and whisky, blending centuries-old tradition with modern precision. Under the guidance of distiller Yuki Nakamura, the White Oak Distillery produces refined small-batch whiskies with great attention to detail. The facility operates only part of the year, contributing to the artisanal nature of each limited release. Today, Akashi remains one of Japan’s most respected and unique whisky producers.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve neat, chilled, or over ice in a small whisky tumbler to fully appreciate its fruit-forward elegance. Excellent as a refreshing highball with soda water, or as a creative base in cocktails calling for fruit liqueur or sherry. Ideal food pairings include fruit tarts, almond cakes, light cheeses, or charcuterie featuring prosciutto and melon. Its balanced sweetness and vibrant acidity make it particularly suitable as both an aperitif and a dessert accompaniment.

The Eigashima - White Oak Distillery Akashi 'Ume' Plum Whisky invites you into a world where tradition meets innovation, offering a distinctive and elegant experience that reflects the artistry of Japan’s smallest and oldest whisky distillery.