Mokkou Yamani
A wooden spice mill that is beautiful just by being there, blending seamlessly into the everyday landscape.
These spice mills are crafted by "Mokkou Yamani," a workshop run by husband and wife Shohei and Mirai Uchiyama, based in Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture.
Available in two types, "pepper mill" and "salt mill," they boast not only unique forms but also exceptional feel in the hand. They are exquisite pieces that exude a distinct presence.
Shohei and Mirai both enrolled in the Woodcraft and Modeling Department at the Kiso Vocational School in Nagano Prefecture in the same year.
After graduating, Shohei worked in furniture making at a joinery shop, while Mirai gained experience in upholstery workshops, both engaging in wood-related work.
In 2018, Shohei established "Mokkou Yamani" as his independent brand.
From 2020, Mirai also joined, and their collaborative work as a couple officially began.
Knowing this background, one deeply understands that these are meticulously crafted works, achievable only by two individuals who thoroughly understand wood.
Their appearance, as elaborate as an objet d'art and possessing a refined beauty, is truly captivating.
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.
Its origin, he says, was 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 deeply palpable.
The names, such as "eggplant" and "sardine," are inspired by familiar objects, showing a sense of playfulness and charm.
Organic Design
The forms, with their intertwined curves and straight lines, possess an organic shape that feels both serene and somewhat unrestrained, adorned with subtle indentations.
These distinctive forms are created using techniques employed in furniture, such as the legs of tables and chairs, utilizing a wood lathe.
I was surprised to hear that they drew inspiration from various designs, both Western and Eastern, including the legs of imported Windsor chairs they admired, low tables, Buddhist altar fittings, and kokeshi dolls.
I personally use two sizes that are easy to use at home, switching between them depending on the place and occasion.
The larger size shown in the photo is tall and can hold a generous amount 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 adjusting screw with gold hardware is for the "pepper mill," and the silver is for the "salt mill."
The natural wood grain and the harmonizing classical gold or silver adjusting screws subtly add an accent.
Grinding as if Slicing
With a desire to use domestic products, they reportedly use blades manufactured by "IKEDA," a company known for producing spice mills highly regarded by professionals in hotels and restaurants.
These domestic blades are said to grind spices by "slicing" rather than "crushing" or "mashing," which enhances their aroma and ensures long-lasting sharpness.
The pleasant "grinding" sound and feel are also a characteristic feature, making it almost addictive.
Another welcome point is that they offer paid repairs 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 watch it become more familiar with my daily life as I use it.
How to Use
First, remove the adjusting screw and the top part to replenish the spices.
With the adjusting screw loosened, hold the body and turn the top part clockwise to grind.
You can also adjust the coarseness of the grind by tightening or loosening the adjusting screw.
Loosen the screw for a coarse grind, and tighten it for a fine grind.
However, be very careful not to turn the top part when the screw is fully tightened, as this may cause damage.
The Exquisite Taste Enhanced by Pepper
Pepper is perfect not only for meat and fish dishes but also for finishing salads and pasta, and carbonara, in particular, is so perfectly paired that I find myself wanting to make it again and again.
Pepper carries a natural scent, reminiscent of the warmth of soil and tree bark.
I feel like I'm completely hooked on pepper, which acts like a "flavor switch," thanks to this experience.
As the mill slides comfortably in my hand, and with every grind of pepper, the aroma of spices wafts up, spreading a sense of exhilaration across the dining table.
By placing it not only in the kitchen but also on the dining table, it also serves as an interior accent that allows one to feel the warmth of wood.
Please try holding a "Mokkou Yamani" spice mill at least once; it shines with love for pepper and the skill and sensibility unique to handmade crafts.
