焼酎 （しょうちゅう / Shochu）
Japanese distilled spirit
- Category
- Traditional drink
- Main Ingredient
- Grains & Noodles
Shochu is a traditional Japanese distilled spirit, made by distillation like whiskey, unlike sake. It can be enjoyed with hot water, cold water, or on the rocks.
When / How to Eat
Shochu is enjoyed at home and izakaya, often paired with Japanese food. Drinking styles vary by season and personal taste.
Cultural Background
Shochu has long been popular in southern Japan, especially Kyushu. It is made from ingredients like sweet potatoes, barley, or rice and is more common in daily life than sake.
Cautions
Some shochu has high alcohol content, so it’s easy to get drunk depending on how it’s mixed. Drink responsibly.