While Dean & DeLuca may have closed its U.S. locations (apart from a few independently owned franchises), the luxury grocer continues to thrive in Japan, where it adapts to local tastes with unique seasonal offerings. This winter, the upscale retailer is introducing its first-ever sakura-flavored dessert drink, along with a popular return of its traditional shiruko beverages.
Sakura desserts, long associated with Japan’s springtime, are now making an appearance in the winter months, as Dean & DeLuca Japan prepares to delight customers with a blend of seasonal flavors. The new drink is part of the brand’s continued effort to integrate Japanese culture into its offerings, ensuring that even long-time expats feel a deep connection to the local food scene.
Sakura Shiruko and Matcha Shiruko Return for Winter
Before the sakura-flavored drink was even revealed, Dean & DeLuca enthusiasts were eagerly anticipating the return of the grocer’s famed shiruko. A traditional Japanese treat, shiruko (also called oshiruko) is a sweet red bean paste porridge typically enjoyed hot, making it a staple comfort food during the colder months.
This year, Dean & DeLuca Japan is reintroducing two variations of shiruko: the classic matcha shiruko, made with premium green tea from Uji, Kyoto, and the new sakura shiruko. Both drinks are served with shiratama, chewy mochi dumplings that soak up the sweet liquid. Notably, the sakura shiruko features a richer bean paste this year, promising a more indulgent experience compared to the previous iteration.
While both drinks can be described as shiruko lattes—thanks to the inclusion of milk—there’s no mistaking the appeal of these seasonal drinks. The sakura shiruko offers a unique twist on the classic with its delicate, subtly salty-sweet flavor, which is characteristic of sakura-based desserts. The flavor profile is typically derived from salted cherry blossom leaves, which are harvested from late spring to fall, ensuring freshness despite the winter setting.
Yuzu Ginger Apple for a Savory Alternative
For those seeking something less sweet but equally indulgent, Dean & DeLuca Japan is also bringing back its Yuzu Ginger Apple drink. A warm, comforting beverage made by simmering apples, ginger, and yuzu—a Japanese citrus fruit known for its sharp yet sweet flavor—this drink offers a complex, soothing taste that balances tartness and spice. The Yuzu Ginger Apple is available in both hot and iced varieties, making it an appealing option for those looking for a more savory, yet still luxurious, drink.
Availability and Pricing
Both shiruko drinks and the Yuzu Ginger Apple will be available starting December 26 and running until January 15. The shiruko options are priced at ¥670 (US$4.35) each, while the Yuzu Ginger Apple is priced at ¥562 for a small and ¥637 for a medium.
As Dean & DeLuca continues to innovate and cater to the evolving tastes of Japan, these new seasonal drinks are sure to attract both locals and expats looking to indulge in comforting winter beverages with a distinctly Japanese twist.
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