Mokkou Yamani
These wooden spice mills are beautiful simply by existing, seamlessly blending into the everyday landscape of your home.
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.
There are two types: "pepper mills" and "salt mills," and in addition to their unique forms, they offer an exceptional feel in the hand. They are truly exquisite pieces that stand out.
Shohei and Mirai entered the Woodcraft Department of the Kiso Advanced Vocational School in Nagano Prefecture in the same year.
After graduating, Shohei was involved in furniture making at a joinery shop, while Mirai gained experience at an upholstery workshop, both pursuing careers related to wood.
In 2018, Shohei became independent under the name "Mokkou Yamani."
Then, in 2020, Mirai joined him, and their joint work as a couple officially began.
Knowing this background makes it clear that their creations, meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail, could only be born from two people who deeply understand wood.
Their elegant beauty, like a finely crafted object, is so captivating that you can't help but gaze at them.
Grinding Fragrance, Weaving Form
Shohei began making pepper mills because he loved black pepper and wanted to create a tool that could grind it more deliciously himself.
It all started with the black pepper used in the green onion ramen served at his local ramen shop.
Through trial and error, he created over 170 different shapes.
The passion poured into these pepper mills 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 a quiet yet somehow unrestrained indentation where curves and straight lines intertwine.
These distinctive forms are created using woodworking lathe techniques, typically applied to furniture parts like table and chair legs.
I was surprised to learn that they draw inspiration from various sources, both Western and Eastern, including the legs of imported Windsor chairs and low tables, as well as Buddhist altar fittings and kokeshi dolls.
I personally use two sizes that are easy for home use, distinguishing between them based on the location and occasion. The larger type shown 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 screw is for the "pepper mill," and the silver is for the "salt mill."
The natural wood grain and the harmonizing classical gold and silver knob screws subtly add an accent, don't they?
Grinding like cutting
Out of a desire to use domestic products, they use blades made by "IKEDA," a manufacturer of spice mills highly regarded by professionals in hotels and restaurants.
These domestic blades are said to grind spices by "cutting" rather than "crushing" or "mashing," resulting in a more aromatic grind and long-lasting sharpness.
The pleasant grinding sensation, a satisfying "crunch, crunch," is also a characteristic feature that can become quite addictive.
Another welcome point is that they offer paid repair services for the wooden parts and blade replacement in case of malfunctions or breakage.
You can enjoy them for a long time, and it's exciting to see how they become more ingrained in your daily life with continued 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.
You can adjust the grind size by tightening the knob screw.
Loosen the screw for a coarse grind, and tighten it for a fine grind.
However, please be very careful not to turn the top part when the screw is fully tightened, as this may cause damage.
The supreme flavor enhanced by pepper
Pepper is perfect for finishing meat and fish dishes, as well as salads and pasta. 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.
I'm completely hooked on pepper, which acts like a "flavor switch," thanks to this experience.
As the mill slides comfortably in your hand, each grind of pepper releases its aroma, creating a sense of excitement at the dining table.
Placing it not just in the kitchen but also on the dining table, it also serves as an interior accent, bringing the warmth of wood into your home.
I highly recommend that you try the "Mokkou Yamani" spice mill, which shines with a love for pepper and the skill and sensibility unique to handmade craftsmanship.
------------------------------------
Maker: Mokkou Yamani / Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture
Materials
Body: Striped maple (iron roasted) (oil finish)
Screw: Brass
Blade: Stainless steel
Size: Approximately Φ57 × H130 mm
Microwave: ×
Dishwasher: ×
Oven: ×
------------------------------------
【About the product】
As these 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 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 (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 it to prevent deterioration of the mill blade and spices.
・The color of the wood may change over time.
・Only refined rock salt and pink rock salt can be used.
※Pink rock salt may discolor the blade.
・Use well-dried rock salt with a size of approximately 2-5mm.
・Some shapes may not be able to be ground.
【Care】
In case of malfunction or breakage, blade replacement is available for a fee.
If you wish, please contact shop@amenoie.jp.
