
This is the Ito En x Nippon Yell Sesame Milk, a dairy-based beverage incorporating both white and black sesame, along with kokutō (Okinawan brown sugar).
The liquid had a muted khaki hue and a fragrant aroma dominated by sweet black sesame, evoking the scent of Cantonese-style black sesame dessert soups. However, the flavour and mouthfeel on tasting were markedly distinct from that association. Served chilled, it presented a pronounced creamy viscosity, yielding a slightly gritty texture toward the finish due to the presence of finely ground sesame.
The flavour was unexpectedly subdued, with the aroma’s promise of intensity giving way to a more mellow profile. The white sesame softened the assertive character of the black sesame, producing a gentle, nutty sweetness at the front. This transitioned into a deeper, earthy note reflective of the kokutō, including a subtle smokiness that contributed to a savoury, almost broth-like finish. The impression was faintly reminiscent of a smooth, non-acidic tomato soup—a quality more textural and umami-based than flavour-matched. Despite its complexity, the beverage left a clean aftertaste. However, it was not one for repurchasing.
This Ito En x Nippon Yell Sesame Milk contained 190 g. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2025.