What is Shochu?
Shochu is a traditional Japanese distilled spirit, typically made from rice, sweet potato (imo), or barley (mugi), each giving the drink its own distinct character — from smooth and mellow to bold and earthy. Unlike sake, shochu is distilled rather than brewed, giving it a higher alcohol content while remaining lighter than whisky or vodka. It's incredibly versatile: enjoy it on the rocks, mixed with hot water (oyu-wari) in winter, with soda for a refreshing highball, or diluted with water (mizuwari). Shochu pairs naturally with Japanese cuisine but works just as well alongside grilled meats and light snacks. Browse our range of shochu below, from classic rice and sweet potato styles to specialty regional varieties.