Bold, fruity and sugar-free — a high-alcohol plum-flavour chūhai from Japan’s premium maker Suntory.
The “-196” in the name refers to the process: whole ume (Japanese plums) are frozen in liquid nitrogen at −196 °C and then used in the drink for an intense plum aroma and flavour.
As a “Zero” product, it carries zero sugar (under Japanese labelling for sugar-free) and a high ABV of 9%, making it a standout in the RTD (ready-to-drink) category.
Tasting Profile:
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🍑 Flavour: Intense ume (Japanese plum), tart-sweet, strong alcohol warmth
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🔸 ABV: 9%
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🌡️ Best Served: Very chilled (well below 5 °C)
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🍱 Pairing: Strong flavour snacks, yakiniku, salty foods, BBQ — best enjoyed in moderation
Why It Stands Out:
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✅ High-strength (9% ABV) for a more intense drink experience
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🧊 Unique production technique: plums frozen at −196 °C for aroma/lipids extraction
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🥂 Sugar-free (zero sugar) option in a premium RTD format
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🇯🇵 From Suntory, one of Japan’s leading beverage groups
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🎁 Great for cocktail bars, premium liquor sections or customers seeking strong, flavour-forward RTDs
