Just like other spirits such as whiskey and vodka, drinking shochu just by itself is always a good way to enjoy the true taste of the beverage. Connoisseur like to drink it that way. I mentioned above that shochu is a drink for drunkards, which is true, but it can also be a classy drink too. There are some very cheap and some very expensive ones. Unlike sake, shochu doesn’t need to be chilled or heated when drank as is. Serving it at room temperature is fine.

Strongly recommended by shochu lovers, and also a good classy way to enjoy shochu if you’ve never tried it, drinking it on the rocks (with ice) is a good way to enjoy the pure taste of the drink. It’s better not to drink the moment it was served to you. Let the ice melt for a minute as it releases the subtle flavors of shochu.

When you order a bottle of shochu, you will be served with a bucket full of ice along with your glasses.

Mizuwari, or having your shochu with some cold water, is another good way to enjoy shochu. The best ratio of shochu to water is 3:2, a bit more of shochu than water to preserve the original taste of shochu.

In Japan, mostly in the winter season, people sometimes have shochu mixed with hot water. In order to make a great Oyuwari, add hot water to the glass first. Then, add the shochu which is heavier than water. The difference in density will create a movement which will mix the drink by itself. The best ratio will of shochu to hot water is also 3:2.

In the shivering winter seasons, this hot drink will give you a great relaxing time!

If you want something sweeter and sparkly, simply replace your cold water with soda. This is a very popular way to drink it too.