Moriizo is a premium sweet potato spirit (shochu) made by Moriizo Distillery in Tarumizu City, Kagoshima Prefecture. Since 1885, for over 130 years, they have kept their traditional method of making shochu in clay pots (Kame-tsubo-shikomi). This clay pot method creates an ideal environment for yeast growth and fermentation, leading to unique flavors. The well-used clay pots develop their own special living environment that gives Moriizo its one-of-a-kind taste.
The distillery uses organic sweet potatoes from contracted farmers in Kagoshima and locally-made rice koji (fermented rice). These carefully chosen ingredients, combined with the clay pot method, create a refined and delicate taste unlike other shochu. While sweet potato shochu was once known for its strong potato smell, Moriizo has evolved to create a smoother, more refined taste while keeping its rich sweetness.
Moriizo is part of the “3M” premium shochu brands from Kagoshima, along with “Maou” and “Murao.” Among these, Moriizo is particularly hard to get. The monthly sales lottery has a winning chance of only about 0.2%, truly deserving of the title “phantom shochu.”
Moriizo has a smooth taste with rich aromas that remind people of sweet potato, butter, and caramel. It tastes similar to fine brandy and leaves a sweet aftertaste. It’s truly a Japanese work of art, born from traditional methods and carefully selected ingredients.
The “Gokujo Moriizo” is an extra special version that’s aged for three years in clay pots in underground caves. The caves provide perfect temperature and humidity for aging, making the drink even richer and sweeter. This supreme version is even rarer than regular Moriizo and is only sold through a lottery at Takashimaya department stores.
There are several ways to enjoy Moriizo. First-time drinkers should try it straight to experience its surprisingly smooth taste. On the rocks, it becomes even smoother as the ice melts. When mixed with hot water (shochu 6: hot water 4), the warmth brings out more sweetness and aroma. Pour the hot water first, then add the shochu for the best mix of flavors.
With its deep taste, rarity, and blend of history and innovation, Moriizo is a dream drink for shochu lovers. Its value comes not just from being hard to get, but from the careful craftsmanship and modern refinement built on Japanese brewing traditions.
If you’re lucky enough to get a bottle, share it with special people. This excellent drink will surely make any moment more memorable. (Mr.Bacchus)
