France and Japan unite in plum wine liqueur

Umeshu De France Prucia is a new plum liqueur from Isake, a company created by French sommelier Xavier Chapelou and Japanese saké expert Kumiko Ohta, with the aim of bringing Japanese saké to a wider audience.

After three years, the company now has what it describes as "a loyal following of fine restaurants and wine shops as well as private clients."

Isake are now introducing Prucia, an original plum wine liqueur that is being promoted as a "fusion between Japanese and French cultures."

Golden Japan plums grown in Moissac, near Agen in France were macerated in grape spirits for 11 months in stainless steel, and then finished off in French oak barrels for one month.

The resulting liquid is 15% ABV, and the retail price is £27.99 for a 70cl bottle.

Sampling is available until Sunday 15 February between 2pm and 8pm in the wine and spirits department at Selfridges, Oxford Street, London.

Alexis Hercules, 11.02.09