A New Trend in Japanese Alcoholic Beverages
When you hear the word “liqueur,” you probably think of whiskey- or gin-based cocktails. However, traditional Japanese shochu-based liqueurs also attract many fans for their unique qualities. In this article, I will look at why shochu-based liqueurs are particularly popular.
Shochu, like other spirits, has a high alcohol content, but shochu-based liqueurs are designed to be enjoyed by those who are not strong drinkers by keeping the alcohol content around 10%. This characteristic is one of the reasons for its popularity among many people. Shochu liqueur is also an attractive option for young women and sweet lovers in particular because of its outstanding sweetness.
Many shochu liqueurs are “fruit liqueurs,” which maximize the natural flavor of fruit. In particular, the use of nearly colorless, transparent Kou-rui shochu (white liquor) or rice shochu as a base allows the sweetness and aroma of the fruit to be fully enjoyed without interfering with its flavor. Liqueurs made from local specialty fruits are gaining popularity both in Japan and abroad for their unique local flavors.
In addition to fruit-based liqueurs, nuts and seed-based liqueurs such as coffee liqueurs are also getting attention. For example, “Toji ga Ireta Coffee”(Brewery Mister Coffee Liqueur) by Kumamoto Prefecture’s Tsutsumi Shuzo is made from carefully selected, deep-roasted coffee beans soaked in shochu. With a low alcohol content of 8 degrees, it can be served on the rocks or over ice cream to enjoy the mellow aroma of coffee and the depth of shochu.
Shochu liqueurs produced in various regions of Japan are characterized by their unique flavors and offer the pleasure of comparing them. New types of shochu, such as yogurt-flavored liqueurs as well as fruit-based liqueurs, are appearing one after another, giving shochu a new attraction. These liqueurs can be enjoyed not only straight or on the rocks, but also in a variety of other ways, such as with soda or with other ingredients.
Shochu-based liqueurs offer a whole new world of taste, combining traditional methods with a modern twist. If you have never tried shochu liqueur before, this is an opportunity to experience its attractiveness. A new drink will put a new spin on your drinking experience. (Mr.Bacchus)
Shochu-based fruit liqueur recommended
YUME HIBIKI 5 years old
ARAGOSHI Cool Yuzu
ARAGOSHI MOMO / PEACH
Coffee and Tea based shochu liqueur recommendations
BREWMASTER COFFEE LIQUEUR
LITTLE KISS Tea Liqueur
Shochu liqueurs featuring local specialties from various regions
UMENOYADO Lychee
PRINCESS ROSE
YOGURU YOGURU YOGURT
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