Cheers To UME, The Chic Purple Sip Taking Over NYC

by Stephanie Maida · March 30, 2023

Spritz season is upon us once again, but Aperol? That's so 2019.

These days, all the cool kids are trading in the orange and picking up UME, the posh purple liqueur on its way to transforming all of our after-work Happy Hours and after-dark nightcaps. Vibrant in color and taste, plum's the word for this standout spirit taking over New York City and beyond.

Launched in 2021, UME Plum Liqueur was born after founder Jenn Toyzer discovered plum alcohol. As she describes it, the former financier felt as if she was "struck by lightning" upon drinking - it was love at first sip. Further inspired by the rich global tradition of plum spirits, she left her job at Goldman Sachs and set off on a journey to bottle that experience for all of us to enjoy.

And we mean, thank god she did.

Deliciously unique and endlessly versatile, the royal purple plum liqueur is bright and fruit-forward, with a lightly sweet and refreshing tartness that makes it ideal for drink-mixing. The flavor serves to complement just about any spirit it's paired with, but just as well takes on the spotlight to be enjoyed on its own.

With the added credentials of being low-ABV and boasting half the sugar of Aperol, it's no wonder UME is fast becoming New Yorkers' drink of choice at hot spots including Zero Bond, The Standard, Le Dive, Outer Heaven, The Blond, and Manhatta - just to name a few.

And while pro bartenders and mixologists are calling it the new backbar essential, UME's stunning hue and whimsical presentation also makes it a must for your own bar cart. As both a mixer and main cocktail component, UME makes it easy to get creative with your sips at home - and you'll obviously want to show off that chic AF bottle when entertaining.

But don't just take our word for it. Fellow out-and-about tastemakers, like the duo behind The VIP List, sing its praises. "We love Ume! We first tried it a few months ago and it has now become a staple on our bar cart. The packaging and even the color are just so extra [special]. It makes for the perfect cocktail mixer."

Now, back to spritz season. For an elevated, plum-flavored twist on the classic, simply pour it over ice, top with bubbly and seltzer, and throw in a fruity garnish. Simple, stylish, delicious.

Cheers to UME's purple reign!