Mokkou Yamani
A wooden spice mill that is beautiful just by existing and effortlessly blends into the scenery of everyday life.
These spice mills are crafted by "Mokkou Yamani," the workshop of Shohei and Mirai Uchiyama, a husband and wife team based in Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture.
Available in two types, "pepper mill" and "salt mill," they offer not only unique forms but also exceptional comfort in hand. They are exquisite pieces that exude a distinct presence.
Shohei and Mirai enrolled in the Woodcraft and Design department of the Agematsu Vocational Technical School in Nagano Prefecture in the same year.
After graduation, Shohei worked on furniture production at a joinery shop, while Mirai gained experience in upholstery workshops, both engaging in wood-related work.
In 2018, Shohei became independent under the name "Mokkou Yamani."
Then, in 2020, Mirai also joined, and their husband-and-wife activities officially began.
Knowing this background, one can deeply understand that these are meticulously crafted works, created by two people who thoroughly understand wood.
Their elaborate, refined and beautiful appearance, almost like an objet d'art, is captivating.
Grinding aromas, weaving shapes
Shohei started producing pepper mills because he loved black pepper and wanted to create a tool that could grind it more deliciously himself.
The genesis of this passion, it is said, was the black pepper used in the green onion ramen served at a local ramen shop.
Through repeated trial and error, over 170 different shapes were born.
The passion poured into the pepper mill is truly palpable.
The names, such as "eggplant" and "sardine," are inspired by familiar objects, adding a touch of playfulness and charm.
Organic Design
The form features curves intertwined with linear lines, creating a quiet yet somewhat unrestrained indentation.
This unique shape is said to be created using woodturning techniques, a skill used for furniture such as table and chair legs.
I was surprised to learn that they drew inspiration from various sources, both Western and Eastern, such as the legs of their favorite imported Windsor chairs, zashiki (low) table legs, as well as Buddhist implements and kokeshi dolls.
I personally use two sizes that are easy for home use, and I switch between them depending on the place and occasion.
The larger size shown in the photo is tall and can hold a lot of spices, making it very convenient for daily use in the kitchen.
On the other hand, the smaller size is compact and perfect for enjoying freshly ground spices at the dining table.
The thumbscrew with gold hardware is for the "pepper mill," and silver is for the "salt mill."
The natural wood grain, harmonized with classical gold and silver thumbscrews, subtly adds an accent.
Grind as if cutting
Driven by the desire to use domestic products, they reportedly use blades made by "IKEDA," a company known for manufacturing spice mills highly regarded by professionals in hotels and restaurants.
These Japanese blades are said to grind by "cutting" rather than "crushing" or "mashing," allowing for aromatic grinding and long-lasting sharpness.
The satisfying crunching sound and feel of the grind are also distinctive, making it quite addictive.
Another welcome feature is that they offer paid repair services for the wooden parts and blade replacement in case of malfunction or damage.
It's a joy to be able to cherish it for a long time and see how it becomes more familiar with my life as I use it.
How to Use
First, remove the thumbscrew and the top part to replenish the spices.
Hold the body with the thumbscrew loosened, and turn the top part clockwise to grind.
You can adjust the grind by tightening or loosening the thumbscrew.
For a coarse grind, loosen the screw; for a fine grind, tighten it slightly.
However, be very careful not to turn the top part with the screw fully tightened, as this could cause damage.
The blissful taste enhanced by pepper
Pepper is perfect for finishing meat and fish dishes, as well as salads and pasta, and the classic carbonara, in particular, is so good that you'll want to have it again and again.
Pepper carries a natural essence, reminiscent of the warmth of earth or tree bark.
Pepper, acting like a "flavor switch," has completely captivated me, thanks to this experience.
As the mill glides comfortably in hand, the aroma of spices wafts up with each grind of pepper, filling the dining table with exhilaration.
By placing it not only in the kitchen but also on the dining table, it serves as a piece of interior decor that brings the warmth of wood.
Please do try holding a "Mokkou Yamani" spice mill at least once, where the love for pepper and the skill and sensibility unique to handmade craftsmanship shine through.
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Maker: Mokkou Yamani / Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture
Materials
Body: Japanese Pagoda Tree (oil finish)
Screw: Brass
Blade: Iron
Size: approx. Φ60 × H160 mm
Microwave: ×
Dishwasher: ×
Oven: ×
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【About the product】
Because they are handcrafted using natural materials, there may be individual differences in shape, color, and size.
【Precautions for Use】
・Store away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and high humidity.
・Do not wash with water. If it gets dirty, wipe it with a cloth tightly wrung out with water.
・If the wood surface becomes rough, apply beeswax wax or edible oil (such as olive oil, linseed oil, or perilla oil) and wipe it thoroughly.
・If not used for a long period, remove the contents and store to prevent deterioration of the mill blade and spices.
・The color of the wood may change over time.
・Only black pepper and white pepper can be used.
・Do not use salt or pink pepper.
・Use well-dried, oil-free pepper with a grain size of approximately 2-5 mm.
・It may not grind depending on the shape of the peppercorns.
【Maintenance】
In case of malfunction or damage, blade replacement is available for a fee.
If you wish, please contact shop@amenoie.jp.
