THE CHOYA GOLDEN UME FRUIT LIQUEUR

I was skeptical about mixing it with soda, but that combination really brings out the tart finish perfectly. The ume fruit flavor is much more complex than I expected from a liqueur.

I’ve been pouring this over sparkling water after dinner and the sweet-sour balance is spot on—the ume fruit gives it a depth that’s way more interesting than regular dessert wines. The shochu base keeps it from being syrupy, so it sips clean even neat.

The tartness from the unripe ume fruit cuts through the sugar nicely, making it dangerously easy to drink straight over ice. I've been mixing it with sparkling water for a refreshing evening treat.