Shochu is a kind of Japanese traditional spirit. Its Alcohol content varies usually from 25 to 30%, but it can go up to 40% for some brands such as the Awamori originally produced in Okinawa. Unlike sake, which is a brewed alcohol made from rice only, shochu is made from many kinds of ingredients such as Japanese sweet potatoes, barley, rice, and buckwheat.
Its unique taste and high alcohol by volume content have been the reasons why Japanese drunkards have loved it for decades!
Shochu was originally made in the Kyushu region, but nowadays it is produced in all areas of Japan.
You can enjoy shochu just like whiskeys and any other kinds of spirit. For instance, have it on the rocks, diluted with water, with soda, and it’s even an excellent drink to mix with Japanese teas.