Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu (Alc.19.5%) 白鹤原酒梅酒 720ml

Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu (720ml) is a rich and flavorful Japanese plum wine made from steeping ume (plums) in alcohol. "Genshu" refers to the undiluted version, meaning it has a higher alcohol content and a more robust flavor compared to regular umeshu. Umeshu is traditionally enjoyed chilled or over ice, but it can also be used in a variety of ways. Here are some creative ideas on how to enjoy Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu:

1. Chilled or On the Rocks

• Ingredients:
  • Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • Ice cubes (optional)
• Instructions:
  • Pour the umeshu into a glass and serve it chilled, or pour it over ice for a more refreshing experience.
• Usage: This is the classic way to enjoy umeshu. The ice helps to mellow out the sweetness and intensify the flavors over time.

2. Umeshu Highball

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 2 parts soda water or sparkling water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wedge (optional)
• Instructions:
  • Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  • Pour the umeshu over the ice, top with soda water or sparkling water, and stir gently.
  • Garnish with a lemon wedge for a zesty twist.
• Usage: A refreshing, fizzy highball that's perfect for hot summer days or as an aperitif.

3. Umeshu Cocktail with Gin

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 1 part gin
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Instructions:
  • In a shaker, mix the umeshu and gin with ice cubes.
  • Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
• Usage: This cocktail offers a balanced blend of the sweetness of umeshu and the botanical flavors of gin, making it a sophisticated drink for parties or special occasions.

4. Umeshu Sangria

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 2 parts red or white wine
  • Fresh fruit slices (oranges, apples, and berries)
  • Ice cubes
• Instructions:
  • In a large pitcher, combine umeshu, wine, and fresh fruit slices.
  • Let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve over ice.
• Usage: A fruity and refreshing take on sangria with the unique sweetness of umeshu.

5. Umeshu with Hot Water (Oyu-wari)

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 2 parts hot water
• Instructions:
  • Heat water, but do not bring it to a boil.
  • Pour the umeshu into a heatproof glass and top with hot water.
• Usage: This is a traditional Japanese way of drinking umeshu in colder weather, warming you up with the comforting flavors of plum.

6. Umeshu Spritzer

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 2 parts sparkling white wine or champagne
  • Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish
• Instructions:
  • In a glass, combine the umeshu and sparkling wine or champagne.
  • Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves.
• Usage: A celebratory and effervescent cocktail that’s perfect for toasts and special events.

7. Umeshu with Tonic

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 2 parts tonic water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wedge for garnish
• Instructions:
  • Fill a glass with ice cubes, pour in the umeshu, and top with tonic water.
  • Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
• Usage: The bitterness of the tonic complements the sweet plum flavor of the umeshu, making this a balanced and refreshing cocktail.

8. Umeshu Martini

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 1 part vodka
  • 1/2 part dry vermouth
  • Ice cubes
  • Plum slice for garnish
• Instructions:
  • In a shaker, combine the umeshu, vodka, and vermouth with ice.
  • Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
  • Garnish with a plum slice.
• Usage: A Japanese twist on the classic martini, adding a fruity and sweet flavor to the drink.

9. Umeshu Sorbet

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Instructions:
  • In a saucepan, combine water and sugar and heat until the sugar dissolves.
  • Remove from heat and mix in the umeshu and lemon juice.
  • Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or pour into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until a sorbet texture forms.
• Usage: A light, refreshing dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of the plum wine.

10. Umeshu Granita

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Instructions:
  • Mix the umeshu, water, and lemon juice in a shallow dish.
  • Freeze and scrape with a fork every 30 minutes until it forms icy granules.
• Usage: A refreshing, icy treat that's great for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between meals.

11. Umeshu Panna Cotta

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon gelatin
• Instructions:
  • In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, and sugar until sugar dissolves.
  • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and gelatin.
  • Once slightly cooled, mix in the umeshu.
  • Pour into ramekins and refrigerate until set.
• Usage: A creamy dessert with a unique twist from the umeshu's plum flavor.

12. Umeshu Marinade for Grilled Meat

• Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
• Instructions:
  • Combine all ingredients and use as a marinade for chicken, pork, or beef.
  • Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Usage: The umeshu adds a sweet, fruity flavor to grilled meats, making this a great summer BBQ marinade.

Storage Tip: Once opened, store Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu in a cool, dark place, or refrigerate to maintain its flavor and freshness.

These ideas showcase the versatility of Hakutsuru Umeshu Genshu, whether you enjoy it straight, in cocktails, or even in culinary creations. Its sweet, fruity plum flavor pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.