Shochu Summer: Craft Cocktails Using This Beloved Spirit From Japan
With summer sweeping in, why not take a dip into the lesser-trod paths of cocktail crafting by using Shochu, Japan’s beloved spirit? Known for its versatility and subtle flavours, shochu pairs beautifully with a range of ingredients, offering a refreshing alternative to the more commonly used spirits.
Here are four shochu cocktail recipes that are perfect for those lazy, hazy days of summer.
Shochu Yuzu Highball
Kick things off with a zesty bang! The Shochu Yuzu Highball is simplicity at its best.
Pour 60 ml of shochu into a chilled highball glass filled with ice. Add a tablespoon of yuzu juice (this citrus fruit is like a cross between a lemon and a mandarin and is utterly refreshing). Top your glass off with soda and stir gently to mix.
Garnish with a twist of yuzu peel or a lemon slice. It’s crisp, light, and incredibly thirst-quenching.
Sakura Shochu Spritz
Capture the ethereal beauty of Japanese cherry blossoms right in your glass.
Infuse 60 ml of shochu with sakura petals overnight, which imparts a gentle floral aroma and a slight pink tint. Strain the shochu and pour it over ice in a wine glass. Add a splash of Aperol for a touch of bitterness and complexity, then top off with prosecco to bring in a festive fizz.
Drop in a few sakura petals for garnish, and you’ve got a drink that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Matcha Mint Shochu Smash
For a refreshing twist on the classic julep, try the Matcha Mint Shochu Smash. Muddle a few fresh mint leaves at the bottom of a cocktail shaker.
Add 60 ml of shochu, a teaspoon of matcha green tea powder, and a dash of simple syrup. Shake vigorously with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig and perhaps a dusting of matcha on top.
This drink is vibrant, invigorating, and offers a beautiful blend of herbal and earthy notes.
Ume Shochu Cooler
Umeboshi, or pickled Japanese plums, offer a unique flavour profile—tart, sweet and salty.
Pit a couple of Umeboshi and muddle them with a slice of peeled ginger in a cocktail shaker. Add 60 ml of shochu and a dash of lime juice. Shake well with ice and strain into an ice-filled tumbler. Top with ginger ale for a little spicy sweetness.
Garnish with a thin slice of ginger or a small skewer of Umeboshi. This cocktail is a delightful adventure in each sip, balancing sweet, sour, and spicy flavours.
These shochu-based cocktails are more than just drinks; they're a celebration of Japanese culture and the art of cocktail making! Whether you're hosting a summer party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these creations are sure to add a touch of sophistication and refreshment to any occasion. Dive into the world of shochu this summer and discover how this versatile spirit can elevate your cocktail game.
