What Is Shochu?
Shochu is a clear white spirit that’s distilled from (one or a combination of) grains and vegetables such as barley (mugi), rice (kome), or sweet potato (imo). It’s often fermented with koji, a type of mold that grows on the grain which aids in breaking down the starches. (Fun fact: different strains of koji are essential to Asian food preparations and crafting ingredients such as soy sauce and miso.) Shochu is a lower-proof spirit, sticking to the 25% ABV range compared to other distilled alcohols such as vodka, rum, and whiskey (usually around 40%). As for the taste, expect a slightly nutty or earthy flavor. Depending on the type, you might also find some floral or fruity notes, but nothing compared to what you’d expect from sake (more on that next).
Shochu vs. Soju
Soju is a clear spirit originally from Korea that is traditionally made from rice but can also be made with other grains such as wheat or sweet potatoes. It’s comparable to vodka and even shochu but usually tastes sweeter since sugars are added in the manufacturing process (vodka and shochu are never made with sugar). Like shochu, soju also stays around the 25% ABV mark.
What about Shochu vs. Sake?
Since shochu and sake (nihonshu) are both Japan’s national alcoholic beverages, it’s important to note these are also very different spirits. The main difference between shochu and sake? The production process. Simply put, sake is brewed and shochu is distilled. Sake’s key ingredient is rice that’s been naturally fermented. The ABV is usually in the 15% range, which is even lower than shochu.
How to Drink Shochu
Like many spirits, there’s not really a rule how to serve shochu. Here are the most common ways to enjoy shochu:
Shochu Cocktails
Of course, you can always use this native Japanese spirit to find a new favorite cocktail. Here are a couple shochu cocktail recipes provided by the folks at iichiko shochu made on Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost island. Aperol Spritz 1 oz. shochu, such as iichiko Saiten ($38, ReserveBar)1 oz. AperolTop with ProseccoTop with Club Soda Build in a wine glass, adding prosecco and club soda last. Give it a quick stir and garnish with a citrus wheel. Saiten Mojito 2 oz. shochu, such as iichiko Saiten1 oz Lime Juice1 oz Simple SyrupTopped with Club SodaMint Sprigs Muddle mint sprigs in a cocktail shaker ($23, Target). Add shochu, lime juice, and simple syrup and shake. Strain into a collins glass with ice, top with club soda, and garnish with mint and lime wedges. You can also try swapping shochu for the liquor in classic cocktails, such as the sidecar. Or maybe a shochu punch is in order for this summer’s Olypic games in Tokyo. No matter how you decide to enjoy shochu, it’s definitely a spirit worth taking residence on the bar cart.
