Plum Wine Pitfalls: Don’t Make These Mistakes When Sipping Umeshu!
Plum wine, also known as umeshu in Japan, is a delightful and versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its sweet and tart flavor profile makes it a popular choice both as an aperitif and a dessert wine. However, to truly appreciate and enjoy plum wine, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes. With over a decade of experience exploring the nuances of umeshu, I’ve seen firsthand where people often go wrong. Let’s dive into these pitfalls so you can elevate your plum wine experience.
1. Ignoring the Quality of Ingredients
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with plum wine is overlooking the quality of its ingredients. Like any other beverage, the taste and overall experience are heavily influenced by what goes into it. Many commercially available plum wines use artificial flavorings and preservatives to cut costs, which can result in a cloyingly sweet and artificial taste.
The Fix: Seek out plum wines made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Look for bottles that specifically mention using Nanko plums, which are renowned for their rich flavor and aroma. Also, check the label for any artificial additives. Ideally, the ingredient list should be simple and straightforward: plums, sugar, and alcohol (usually shochu or sake). For instance, you can find authentic options at specialty stores or even online at places like The Australian Store, which often curates selections of genuine Japanese products.
2. Serving Plum Wine at the Wrong Temperature
Temperature plays a crucial role in how plum wine tastes. Serving it too warm or too cold can mask its delicate flavors and aromas. Many people treat plum wine like a regular red or white wine, but it has its own ideal serving temperature range.
The Fix: The best temperature to serve plum wine is slightly chilled, around 50-55°F (10-13°C). This temperature range allows the wine’s sweetness and acidity to balance perfectly, enhancing its fruity notes. You can achieve this by refrigerating the bottle for about an hour before serving. Avoid serving it straight from the freezer, as extreme cold can dull the flavors. If you prefer it warmer, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before pouring.
3. Using the Wrong Glassware
The type of glass you use can significantly impact your perception of plum wine. Using the wrong glassware can diminish the aroma and taste, preventing you from fully enjoying the experience. Many people simply grab whatever glass is available, but a little consideration can go a long way.
The Fix: Opt for a small to medium-sized wine glass with a slightly tapered shape. This shape helps concentrate the aromas, allowing you to better appreciate the wine’s fruity bouquet. A tulip-shaped glass is an excellent choice. Avoid using large, wide-mouthed glasses, as they can dissipate the aromas too quickly. For a more traditional Japanese experience, you can also use a small sake cup (ochoko) or a small ceramic cup.
4. Pairing Plum Wine Incorrectly
Plum wine is a versatile drink that pairs well with a variety of foods, but choosing the wrong pairings can lead to a less-than-ideal culinary experience. Many people mistakenly believe that plum wine only complements Asian cuisine, but its sweet and tart profile can be matched with a broader range of dishes.
The Fix: Experiment with different food pairings to discover your favorites. Plum wine pairs exceptionally well with cheeses (especially creamy varieties like brie or goat cheese), grilled meats, and desserts. Its sweetness cuts through the richness of fatty foods, while its acidity complements savory dishes. Avoid pairing it with overly spicy or heavily seasoned foods, as these can overpower the wine’s delicate flavors. Also, consider trying it with dark chocolate or fruit tarts for a delightful dessert pairing.
5. Overlooking the Different Types of Plum Wine
Not all plum wines are created equal. There are various types, each with its unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Ignoring these differences can lead to disappointment if you’re expecting a certain taste and get something completely different.
The Fix: Familiarize yourself with the different types of plum wine available. Some are made with a base of shochu (a Japanese distilled spirit), while others use sake or even brandy. The base alcohol can significantly influence the wine’s overall flavor. Also, some plum wines are aged longer than others, resulting in a smoother, more complex taste. Research different brands and varieties to find those that best suit your palate. Exploring options from different producers, perhaps even sampling craft beers from places like DROPT Beer to cleanse your palate, can enhance your appreciation for the subtle differences.
6. Storing Plum Wine Improperly
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the quality and flavor of plum wine. Storing it incorrectly can cause it to spoil or lose its intended taste. Many people simply leave it on a shelf or in a warm place, which can degrade its quality over time.
The Fix: Store plum wine in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. The ideal storage temperature is around 55-65°F (13-18°C). Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate the bottle to maintain its freshness. Be sure to reseal the bottle tightly to prevent oxidation, which can alter the flavor. Properly stored, an opened bottle of plum wine can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.
7. Neglecting the Aging Potential
While most plum wines are meant to be consumed relatively young, some higher-quality varieties can benefit from aging. Ignoring this potential can mean missing out on a richer, more complex flavor profile.
The Fix: If you have a bottle of premium plum wine, consider aging it for a few years. Store it in a cool, dark place, just like you would with a fine wine. Over time, the flavors will mellow and integrate, resulting in a smoother, more nuanced taste. However, be aware that not all plum wines are suitable for aging, so do some research beforehand. Look for bottles that are specifically labeled as being age-worthy.
8. Drinking it Only Straight
While plum wine is delicious on its own, limiting yourself to drinking it straight means missing out on a world of possibilities. Its versatile flavor profile makes it an excellent ingredient in cocktails and other mixed drinks.
The Fix: Experiment with different ways to enjoy plum wine. Try it on the rocks, mixed with soda water or sparkling wine, or as a base for cocktails. It pairs well with citrus fruits, ginger, and mint. You can also use it in cooking, as a marinade for meats or as a glaze for desserts. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore new flavor combinations.
9. Not Reading the Label
Failing to read the label carefully can lead to misunderstandings about the wine’s origin, ingredients, and alcohol content. This information is crucial for making informed choices and ensuring you’re getting a product that meets your expectations.
The Fix: Always take the time to read the label before purchasing or consuming plum wine. Pay attention to the ingredients list, alcohol content, and any other relevant information. Look for details about the type of plums used, the base alcohol, and any additives or preservatives. This will help you make a more informed decision and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
10. Disregarding Personal Preferences
Ultimately, the best way to enjoy plum wine is to drink it in a way that suits your personal preferences. Following rigid rules or guidelines without considering your own tastes can diminish the experience.
The Fix: Be open to experimenting and discovering what you like best. Try different serving temperatures, glassware, food pairings, and cocktails. Don’t be afraid to break the rules and create your own unique way of enjoying plum wine. After all, the most important thing is that you find it delicious and enjoyable.
| Mistake | The Fix |
|---|---|
| Ignoring Ingredient Quality | Choose wines with natural ingredients, like Nanko plums. |
| Incorrect Serving Temperature | Serve slightly chilled (50-55°F). |
| Using Wrong Glassware | Opt for tulip-shaped wine glasses. |
| Improper Food Pairing | Pair with cheese, grilled meats, and desserts. |
| Overlooking Wine Types | Familiarize yourself with shochu or sake-based varieties. |
| Improper Storage | Store in a cool, dark place. |
| Neglecting Aging Potential | Age premium bottles for a richer flavor. |
| Only Drinking Straight | Experiment with cocktails and mixed drinks. |
| Not Reading the Label | Check ingredients and alcohol content. |
| Disregarding Preferences | Customize your drinking experience. |
FAQ About Plum Wine
Q1: What is the best way to store plum wine after opening?
After opening a bottle of plum wine, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain its freshness. Be sure to reseal the bottle tightly to prevent oxidation, which can alter the flavor. Properly stored, an opened bottle of plum wine can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.
Q2: Can plum wine be aged?
While most plum wines are meant to be consumed relatively young, some higher-quality varieties can benefit from aging. Store it in a cool, dark place, just like you would with a fine wine. Over time, the flavors will mellow and integrate, resulting in a smoother, more nuanced taste. However, be aware that not all plum wines are suitable for aging, so do some research beforehand. Look for bottles that are specifically labeled as being age-worthy.
Q3: What are some good food pairings for plum wine?
Plum wine pairs exceptionally well with cheeses (especially creamy varieties like brie or goat cheese), grilled meats, and desserts. Its sweetness cuts through the richness of fatty foods, while its acidity complements savory dishes. Avoid pairing it with overly spicy or heavily seasoned foods, as these can overpower the wine’s delicate flavors. Also, consider trying it with dark chocolate or fruit tarts for a delightful dessert pairing.
