Momiji-manju" is a famous confectionery in Hiroshima. In addition to the standard red bean paste, various flavors such as green tea and cheese are available, and every time I come across a new flavor, I end up buying it.

This time, we found the "tipsy momiji" from Tenkodo at Hiroshima Brand Shop TAU, an antenna store of Hiroshima Prefecture. You can enjoy the novel combination of momiji manju, chocolate, and brandy. The price is 160 yen (tax included).

Tenkodo "tipsy momiji

Tenkodo's "tipsy momiji" is a momiji bun filled with sweet bean paste and coated on one side with milk chocolate. It is dipped in brandy syrup. The brandy used is Dover's Demi-Sec brandy VO, with an alcohol content of 37%.


The chocolate melts smoothly in the mouth, followed by the moist dough and red bean paste. The more you bite into it, the more the brandy seeps out and the mellower the aroma becomes. The chocolate is not too strong, and plays a supporting role in enhancing the deep richness of the brandy. The sweetness of the bean paste gently fades away, and what remains at the end is a heat sensation that is typical of alcohol. Interesting that it looks like a Western-style sake cake, yet has a touch of Japanese confectionery about it!


With a strong sake flavor, even just one "tipsy momiji" will make you feel "tipsy". It can be stored at room temperature, but it is recommended to chill it in the refrigerator before eating. The contrast between the crispy chocolate and the moist dough can be felt more clearly.