Shochu

Shochu is the most popular distilled spirit in Japan. We focus on honkaku (authentic) shochu almost exclusively, ignoring korui (multiple distillation) shochu. To understand the distinction, imagine honkaku is Single Malt Scotch and korui is the plastic liter jug of blended scotch on the bottom shelf of the liquor store.

In this section we explain more about shochu and review many of the shochus currently available in the United States (and elsewhere when we can get ahold of a bottle).

Information:

What is Shochu? – A more in-depth explanation of the spirit.

How to Drink Shochu – Shochu can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. We discuss the traditional Japanese styles and get more creative.

Shochu FAQs – As you ask questions, we’ll answer them here.

Shochu Reviews (Explained):

Imo (sweet potato) Shochu Reviews – Imo is a full flavored, earthy shochu style

Mugi (barley) Shochu Reviews – Mugi shochu is mild and well balanced

Kome (rice) Shochu Reviews – Kome shochu is very clean and refreshing

Awamori Reviews – Awamori is made exclusively in Okinawa with aged thai rice

Other Shochu Reviews – Shochu can be made from a variety of ingredients such as black sugar, carrot, buckwheat, etc.

Kampai!

Tasting Notes: The SG Shochu MUGI

The SG Shochu MUGI wraps several barley shochu identities into one. It's lightly barrel-aged and carries the associated sweet notes. But there's also a graininess that is revealed when the temperature of the drink drops. It's a versatile barley shochu that can be enjoyed a variety of ways.

Tasting Notes: The SG Shochu IMO

The SG Shochu IMO is a clear invitation to create the classic imo cocktail. If you get it right, it will resonate and cascade around the world until you can't not have sweet potato shochu on your menu if you consider yourself a proper drinking establishment.

iichiko silhouette

This iichiko silhouette is probably the most common Japanese shochu currently available in the United States. In NYC I’ve seen it in random mom & pop liquor stores as the only shochu among a shelf of sake options. It’s most commonly available in 750ml bottles, though I’ve seen other sizes in other countries. This is a great starter shochu, which is why I’ve chosen it for my first tasting note. It was my introduction to shochu back in 2008. I’d had Korean soju before, but Japanese shochu is a strikingly different (and better) experience.

Tasting Notes: Lento Shochu

Lento is the top selling kokuto shochu in Japan, and it is available internationally as well. Try it on the rocks or with sparkling water for a refreshing taste of the Amami Islands. Kanpai!