Mokkou Yamani
A wooden spice mill that is beautiful just by being there and effortlessly blends into the scenery of daily life.
This spice mill is crafted by "Mokkou Yamani," a workshop run by husband and wife Shohei and Mirai Uchiyama, based in Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture.
There are two types, "pepper mill" and "salt mill," and not only do they have unique forms, but the feel when held in the hand is exceptional. They are exquisite items that truly stand out.
Shohei and Mirai entered the Wood Craft Department of the Kiso Vocational School of Technology in Nagano Prefecture in the same year.
After graduation, Shohei was involved in furniture making at a joinery shop, while Mirai gained experience at workshops specializing in upholstery, both working in wood-related fields.
In 2018, Shohei became independent under the name "Mokkou Yamani."
Then, in 2020, Mirai also joined, and their joint activities as a couple officially began.
Knowing this background, one can deeply understand that these are meticulously crafted pieces, created precisely because the two of them possess such extensive knowledge of wood.
Their elaborate, refined beauty, like an objet d'art, is so captivating that one can't help but gaze at it.
Grinding aromas, weaving shapes
Shohei started making pepper mills because he loves black pepper and wanted to create a tool that could grind it more deliciously himself.
Apparently, it all began with the black pepper used in the green onion ramen served at a local ramen shop.
Through trial and error, over 170 different shapes were born.
The passion poured into the pepper mills is palpable.
The names, such as "eggplant" and "sardine," are inspired by familiar objects, adding a touch of playfulness and charm.
Organic Design
A form where curves and linear lines intertwine, creating indentations that are quiet yet convey a sense of freedom.
These unique shapes are apparently created using a wood lathe, a technique employed for furniture parts such as table and chair legs.
I was surprised to learn that they draw inspiration from both Western and Eastern designs of their predecessors, such as the legs of their favorite overseas Windsor chairs, legs of low tables, and even Buddhist altar fittings and kokeshi dolls.
I personally use two convenient sizes for home use, switching between them depending on the location and occasion.
The larger type in the photo is tall and can hold plenty of spices, making it very convenient for daily use in the kitchen.
On the other hand, the smaller type is compact and perfect for enjoying freshly ground spices at the dining table.
The gold knob is for the "pepper mill," and the silver one is for the "salt mill."
The natural wood grain, and the classical gold and silver knobs that harmonize with it, subtly add an accent.
Grinding like cutting
To ensure they use domestic products, they use blades made by "IKEDA," a company that manufactures spice mills highly regarded by professionals in hotels and restaurants.
These domestic blades are said to grind by "cutting" rather than "crushing" or "mashing," which allows for a more fragrant grind and longer-lasting sharpness.
The satisfying crunching sound when grinding is also a distinctive feature, and it's easy to get addicted to it.
Another great point is that in case of malfunction or damage, repairs to the wood and blade replacement are available for a fee.
It's something to cherish for a long time, and I look forward to it becoming more ingrained in my daily life with each use.
How to Use
First, remove the knob screw and the top part to refill the spices.
With the knob screw loosened, grip the body and turn the top part clockwise to grind.
The coarseness of the grind can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the knob screw.
For a coarse grind, loosen the screw; for a fine grind, tighten it.
However, it is important to be careful not to turn the top part with the screw fully tightened, as this may cause damage.
Elevate your dishes with pepper for a blissful taste
Pepper is perfect not only for meat and fish dishes but also for finishing salads and pasta, and classic carbonara, in particular, is so compatible that you'll want to make it again and again.
Pepper carries a hint of nature, reminiscent of the warmth of earth and tree bark.
Pepper, acting like a "flavor switch," has completely captivated me as a result of this experience.
As the mill glides comfortably in your hand, a waft of spice aroma rises with each grind of pepper, filling the dining table with excitement.
Beyond the kitchen, placing it on the dining table also makes it a cozy interior decoration that brings the warmth of wood into your home.
Please try holding a "Mokkou Yamani" spice mill, which shines with a passion for pepper and the unique skill and sensibility of craftsmanship.
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Maker: Mokkou Yamani / Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture
Materials
Body: Beech (iron-roasted) (oil finish)
Screw: Brass
Blade: Stainless steel
Size: Approximately Φ55 × H130 mm
Microwave: ×
Dishwasher: ×
Oven: ×
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【About the product】
Since these products are handmade from 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 tightly wrung cloth dampened with water.
・If the wood surface becomes dry, apply beeswax wax or edible oil (olive oil, linseed oil, perilla oil, etc.) and wipe 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 rock salt (refined) and pink rock salt can be used.
*Pink rock salt may cause discoloration of the blade.
・Please use well-dried rock salt with a size of approximately 2-5mm.
・Some shapes may not be grindable.
【Maintenance】
In case of malfunction or damage, blade replacement is available for a fee.
Please contact shop@amenoie.jp if you wish to do so.
