Previously, we introduced an article titled “The Three Great Sweet Potato Shochu Brands of Japan: The Three M’s”.
Have you had a chance to try these legendary Shochu labels, often referred to as “the royalty of Shochu”?
In that piece, we focused on must-try bottles—but this time, let’s take a step back and revisit the basics: How is Shochu actually made? What’s the best way to enjoy it?
Whether you’re brand new to shochu or a seasoned regular at your favorite local snack bar, this is a must-read.
Contents
How Shochu Is Made: The Key Is in the Distillation and Ingredients
Shochu is Japan’s traditional distilled spirit.
Unlike sake, which is brewed, shochu is created by distilling fermented mash, resulting in a higher alcohol content.
There are two main types of shochu based on the distillation method:
- Honkaku Shochu (Single Distillation): Rich in aroma and flavor that reflects the raw ingredients—like sweet potatoes, barley, or rice.
- Korui Shochu (Continuous Distillation): Cleaner and more neutral in taste, perfect for mixing with other beverages.
Common ingredients include:
- Sweet potatoes (imo shochu)
- Barley (mugi shochu)
- Rice (kome shochu)
In recent years, more unique ingredients have gained popularity—such as brown sugar, soba (buckwheat), and even sesame—broadening the flavor spectrum even further.
How to Drink Shochu: Hot Water Isn’t the Only Option!
One of shochu’s biggest appeals is how versatile it is to drink.
The same bottle can taste completely different depending on how you enjoy it:
- Straight or on the rocks: Experience the pure essence and aroma of the ingredients.
- With water or hot water: Great with meals, and easy on the palate. Hot water brings out the sweet, earthy aroma of sweet potato shochu.
- With soda (Shochu Highball): Especially popular with younger drinkers—refreshing and crisp, especially with barley or rice-based shochu.
- With milk or coffee: Surprisingly delicious! Sweet potato shochu with milk tastes like a roasted sweet potato latte—unexpectedly addictive.
There’s no one “correct” way to drink Shochu. Instead of worrying about the rules, just ask: Does it taste good to you? Find your favorite way to enjoy it!
The Shochu Trend: Craft Culture and Diversity on the Rise
In recent years, the “craft” wave has reached the shochu world as well.
Beyond major brands, small-batch producers are gaining attention for their unique, carefully crafted offerings.
- Craft Shochu: Made with local ingredients like regional sweet potatoes, natural spring water, and distinctive yeast strains. Often beautifully packaged—great as gifts.
- Barrel-aged Shochu: Gains a rich, toasty aroma similar to whiskey. A hit with overseas fans.
- Women and Young Brewers: New faces are refreshing tradition, with creative label designs and product names.
- Global Appeal: Shochu bottles with English labels and pairing suggestions are becoming more common, catering to both export markets and inbound tourism.
Once considered a staple of Japan’s neighborhood snack bars, shochu is now evolving into a truly global spirit.
In Summary: 4 Tips to Savor Shochu Today
- Choose by Ingredient to Discover Your Favorite
Sweet potato, barley, or rice—each offers a unique flavor profile. Try a few to find what suits you. - Drink It Your Way
Water, soda, milk—changing the mixer changes everything. Explore and experiment! - Go Craft to Satisfy Your Curiosity
A lovingly crafted bottle from a local distillery might just redefine your view of shochu. - Ask for Recommendations at a Snack Bar
Bartenders and regulars often know local-only gems. You might stumble upon a rare treasure.
Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!
You can enjoy many kinds of drinks at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.
Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.
When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!
Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.
New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!
