FIA
CLASSIC, CHILI, MINT

2025 Cathay Global Wine & Spirits Awards Asia (GWSAA) 
Best Liqueur 2025
 
This Hong Kong-crafted artisanal Umeshu uses their CLASSIC plum wine as a base, infused directly with bird's eye chili (指天椒) and mint leaves (薄荷葉) at a high ABV of 26%. Because the chili and mint are already expertly brewed into the bottle, you do not need to add any fresh chili or mint to the glass yourself.
 
Here are the best ways to experience its unique "fire and ice" flavor profile:
 
Best for Maximum Impact: Chilled NeatMethod: Keep the entire bottle in the refrigerator until completely chilled. Pour directly into a small tasting glass.Experience: This gives you the full, unadulterated flavor. You will first taste the rich, sweet acidity of Nanko Ume plums, followed by a sudden burst of fiery spice from the bird's eye chili, finished by a soothing, cooling wave of mint.
 
Best for Balanced Sipping:
On the RocksMethod: Place one large, slow-melting ice sphere or cube in a rocks glass and pour the FIA Umeshu over it.
 
Experience: As the ice melts slightly, it tames the intense 26% alcohol burn. The cold temperature amplifies the refreshing mint notes while gently rounding out the sharp kick of the chili.
 
Best for Refreshment: FIA HighballMethod: Mix 1 part FIA Umeshu with 2 to 3 parts unsweetened sparkling water over a glass packed with ice.
 
Experience: The carbonation carries the plum sweetness and the chili's heat beautifully across your palate, creating a incredibly refreshing, fizzy drink that cuts through grease.
 
Food Pairing TipsBecause of its unique sweet, spicy, and cooling dynamics, this bottle is an absolute weapon when paired with food.
 
Try it alongside:
Greasy or Fried Foods: Hong Kong-style skewers, Japanese Kushikatsu, or hot fried chicken.
 
Spicy Cuisine: Sichuan mala hotpot or spicy Thai dishes, where the plum sweetness counters the burn while the chili matches the heat.