These Japanese Alcoholic Drinks Should Be on Your List!
Japan is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and this extends to its diverse array of alcoholic beverages. Japanese alcoholic drinks bring a unique and delightful experience to the palate of both seasoned enthusiasts and newbies alike. Unfortunately, not many are aware that there is a vast array of Japanese alcoholic beverages out there! So, here are our must-try Japanese alcoholic drinks that deserve a spot on your list.
Sake
Sake is a quintessential drink. When one thinks of Japanese alcoholic drinks, the first thing that often comes to mind is sake.
Known as nihonshu in Japan, sake is a rice wine that has been enjoyed for centuries. This traditional drink is brewed through a fermentation process involving polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mould.
Sake is an apt drink to serve on various occasions because it can be served hot, cold, or at room temperature.
Shocohu
Shochu is another popular Japanese alcoholic drink that you must try. Unlike sake, shochu is a distilled spirit and can be made from a variety of ingredients, including barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. Because of this, there are many ranges of shochu flavours available, carrying different tastes and aromas.
Shochu can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed with water or other beverages. It’s a staple in many Japanese households and izakayas (Japanese pubs), making it a must-try for anyone exploring Japanese alcoholic drinks.
Umeshu
If you prefer sweet alcoholic drinks, umeshu is your top bet. Umeshu is a liqueur made from ume plums, sugar, and shochu or sake. Its sweet and tangy flavour, combined with a refreshing fruity aroma, makes it a popular choice, especially among those who might find other Japanese alcoholic drinks too strong.
You can drink umeshu straight, on the rocks, or mixed with soda water. It’s a fantastic introduction to Japanese alcoholic drinks for those new to the scene.
Japanese whisky
Whisky isn’t just the drink of the west! The Japanese also know how to make a mean whisky. In recent years, this rendition of the drink has gained international acclaim
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Japanese whisky often features a smooth, refined taste with complex flavours. Distilleries like Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Nikka have become renowned worldwide, with their bottles often selling at high prices.
Happoshu
Also known as “low-malt beer,” happoshu is an interesting addition to the world of Japanese alcoholic drinks.
Japan imposes a tax regulation on the malt content in beer. To curb this policy, Japanese brewers created happoshu, a cheaper alternative with less malt content than regular beer.
Despite the lack of malt, happoshu still offers a refreshing and crisp taste. It’s a popular choice for those looking to enjoy Japanese alcoholic drinks on a budget without sacrificing flavour.
Chuhai
Short for “shochu highball,” chuhai is a popular canned cocktail in Japan. It contains a blend of shochu and flavoured soda. It’s an RTD beverage which comes in flavours like lemon, grapefruit, and peach, making them a fun and convenient drink to enjoy alcohol on the go.
In the summer months, chuhai is especially popular because it’s a refreshing and quick alternative to other alcoholic drinks.
Exploring the world of Japanese alcoholic drinks is a delightful journey through unique flavours and traditions. These must-try Japanese alcoholic drinks offer a taste of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. So, if you’re looking to try something new, consider one of these exceptional Japanese alcoholic drinks and savour the experience!
You can find Japanese alcoholic drinks in your nearest Red & White store.
