Ryukyu Moromisu (Okinawa): season, origin and where to buy

Seasonal calendar

Timing shifts with the weather and conditions in each region.

Official registration details (MAFF)

The registered description as published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Characteristics

Ryukyu Moromisu is a non-sparkling drink made of moromi residue obtained through Ryukyu Awamori (alcoholic beverage indigenous to Okinawa Prefecture) brewage. Ryukyu Moromisu has amber color and the taste is sour. But Ryukyu Moromisu is smooth and easy to drink since the main acidity component is citric acid, and thus does not have pungency nor strong acidic odor.

Link with the production area

Located in the subtropical climate with warm temperature and humidity, moromi faces a risk of propagating bacteria while processing. Thus, the production area has traditionally brewed alcohol (Awamori) using black koji mold as it produces citric acid and helps prevent the decomposition of moromi.

Characteristics and link with the area: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website (https://www.maff.go.jp/e/policies/intel/gi_act/register/s44.html)

Where to buy

As a rule, only products that meet the registered standard may use a GI name (with exceptions such as prior use). Check for the GI mark and the place of origin to tell it apart from ordinary products with similar names.

Find on furusato nozei (opens in a new tab)Find online (opens in a new tab)

These links go to Japanese-language shops; check whether they ship overseas.

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Many products are sold online, so check for the GI mark, which shows it is a GI product, and the name "Ryukyu Moromisu."

FAQ

Ryukyu Moromisu is a non-carbonated drink made in Okinawa Prefecture from the moromi lees left over from brewing Ryukyu awamori. Amber in color and tart, it is easy to drink because its main acid is citric acid, so it lacks the sharp, pungent smell of vinegar.

Ryukyu Moromisu is produced in Okinawa Prefecture.

Ryukyu Moromisu is shipped all year round.

Look for it via furusato nozei (hometown tax donation) and online shops. Check the GI mark and the place of origin before you buy.

Ryukyu Moromisu was registered as a Geographical Indication on November 10, 2017 (Registration No. 44). The registered producer group is Ryukyu Moromisu Business Cooperative.