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• Region: Kagoshima, Japan
• Distillery: Ookubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 25%
• Size: Available in 720 ml or 1800 ml

This limited edition release from the craft distillery in Kagoshima showcases the unique qualities of Murasaki (Purple) Imo, known for its high anthocyanin content, which is rich in antioxidants. The sweet potato's deep purple flesh shines through in this shochu, imparting a delicate aroma reminiscent of sake or white wine.

Tasting Notes:
The shochu presents a beautifully nuanced palate with sweet, floral notes, providing a refreshing experience that highlights the distinct characteristics of the Murasaki Imo.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 25%
• Size: 720 ml

Kikoji Ookubo is crafted from baked sweet potato and yellow rice koji. Traditionally, original Kagoshima shochu was made using Kikoji (yellow koji), known for its unique and exceptional flavor. This bottling represents the distillery's pride, inheriting the age-old traditions of shochu production.

Its rich yet subtle character is attributed to the special yellow koji, where the initial sweetness gracefully transitions into a complex and intriguing finish.

Accolades:

• Awarded Silver at the HKIWSC 2018
• Awarded Silver at the HKIWSC 2019
• Awarded Gold at the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition 2018

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Ookubo Shuzo
• Age: 4 Years
• ABV: 30%
• Size: 720 ml

Introducing The HACHI Shochu, Sweet Potato (Imo), Cask Matured, a unique collaboration with Ookubo Shuzo, a family-owned farm distillery in Kagoshima, and Hacchan, who has incorporated whisky maturation techniques into the shochu-making process. This exquisite spirit is crafted from Kogane Sengan, a delectable variety of sweet potato known for its fluffy texture, delightful aroma, and golden skin.

Production Process:
Single distilled under normal atmospheric pressure, this Honkaku Shochu retains the true flavors of the underlying sweet potato. Batch 3 has been matured for approximately 4 years and 4 months in ex-Brandy casks, allowing it to preserve the spirit’s origin while enhancing its complexity.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A captivating aroma of sweet caramel and butterscotch mingles with fruit cake, enriched by notes of cherries and raisins, rounded off with hints of oak spices.

• Palate: The palate opens with the initial sweetness of candied orange, complemented by hints of caramel and toffee. The oak spices create a balanced backdrop, allowing the sweet potato shochu’s essence to emerge with notes of peach and lychee, providing a delightful finish.

• Finish: A rich, lingering finish that showcases the interplay between the sweet potato and brandy influences, leaving a warm sensation of caramel and subtle fruitiness, perfectly balanced with a touch of oak.

Embark on a flavorful journey with The HACHI Shochu, Sweet Potato (Imo), Brandy Cask Matured, where the traditions of shochu meet the artistry of cask maturation for a truly remarkable tasting experience.

Region: Japan

Distillery: Ookubo Shuzo

Age: 2 Years

ABV: 30%

Size: 720 ml

THE HACHI SHOCHU, Sweet Potato (Imo), Virgin Oak Matured is a collaborative effort with Ookubo Shuzo, a family-owned farm distillery in Kagoshima, and Hacchan, who has embraced whisky cask maturation techniques. This exceptional shochu is crafted from Kogane Sengan, a fluffy sweet potato variety known for its delightful aroma and golden skin color. Single distilled under normal atmospheric pressure, it qualifies as Honkaku Shochu, ensuring the preservation of the sweet potato's inherent flavors.

Batch 2 consists of a vatting where 90% of the shochu has matured for about 2 years and 10% for approximately 2 months in Virgin Oak. This maturation process retains the original spirit's flavor while adding an extra dimension of complexity to the nose, palate, and finish.

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Straw, Hay, Light Gold
• Nose: A vibrant bouquet of fresh fruits, moscatel, lychee, reminiscent of a sparkling white wine, complemented by notes of cream soda and fresh mint, all with a subtle sweetness.
• Palate: An initial sweetness harmonizes with fresh mint, cream soda, cereals, and spices like cloves and cardamom, finishing with hints of oak and dark chocolate.
• Finish: A smooth, lingering finish that marries the sweet potato essence with warm oak notes and a delicate spice, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that invites another sip.

Discover the unique profile of The HACHI Shochu, Sweet Potato (Imo), Virgin Oak Matured, Batch 2, where traditional craftsmanship meets innovative maturation for a truly exceptional tasting experience.

Region: Japan

Distillery: Ookubo Shuzo

Age: NAS

ABV: 19%

Size: 720 ml

THE HACHI SHOCHU, Umeshu, Sweet Potato (Imo) is a remarkable collaboration with Ookubo Shuzo, a family-owned farm distillery in Kagoshima, and Hacchan, dedicated to highlighting Shochu as a hidden gem of Japan. This Umeshu exemplifies a unique blend, layering flavors over the original spirit for a truly exceptional tasting experience.

This expression combines Koshu Yaki Imo Shochu, crafted from baked Kogane Sengan—a fluffy and aromatic sweet potato—and baked Annou Imo, a naturally sweeter variety with yellow flesh and high viscosity. Using Kuro (Black) Koji, this Honkaku Shochu is single distilled under normal atmospheric pressure and aged for over 10 years, complemented by delicious Kanjuku (ripened) Nanko Ume plums from Kagoshima.

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Gold
• Nose: A distinctive aroma of Imo Shochu, showcasing the underlying sweet potato with hints of smoked almonds.
• Palate: The initial sourness of the Ume is beautifully balanced with sweetness, presenting a syrupy texture that evokes nostalgic memories of fruit jelly snacks, with the shochu subtly lingering in the background.
• Finish: A smooth, fruity finish that lingers on the palate, leaving a delightful aftertaste of sweet potato and plum, inviting you to savor each sip.

Indulge in The HACHI Shochu, Umeshu (Nanko Ume), Sweet Potato (Imo) for a delightful exploration of flavors that celebrate the essence of Japanese craftsmanship.

Region: Japan

Distillery: Ookubo Shuzo

Age: 2 Years and 7 Months

ABV: 30%

Cask: Mizunara

Size: 720 ml

The HACHI Shochu, Sweet Potato (Imo), Mizunara Cask Matured is a collaboration with Ookubo Shuzo, a family-owned distillery in Kagoshima, and Hacchan, who has embraced the benefits of cask maturation influenced by whisky. This unique shochu is crafted from Grilled Kogane Sengan and Anno Imo, a fluffy variety of sweet potato known for its delightful aroma and golden skin (Yaki Imo). Utilizing Kuro (Black) Koji, it is single distilled under normal atmospheric pressure, classifying it as Honkaku Shochu to preserve the inherent flavors of the sweet potato.

This Batch 5 has been matured for approximately 2 years and 7 months in Mizunara Oak, which retains the original spirit's flavors while adding an extra layer of complexity to the nose, palate, and finish. Mizunara Oak is renowned for its unique flavors and challenges in cask-making due to its grain structure, which can lead to leakages but contributes distinct characteristics not found in traditional bourbon and sherry barrels.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: An aromatic blend of tropical fruits, incense, sandalwood, cedar, and coconut, with subtle smoke balanced by the sweet potato's underlying notes.
• Palate: A delightful combination of grated dry coconut, banana, and pineapple, accented by oak spices, incense, and sandalwood, with sweet potato flavors emerging alongside gentle smoke.
• Finish: A long, warming finish that lingers with hints of sweet potato and coconut, enriched by the intricate layers imparted by the Mizunara Oak.

Experience the exceptional artistry of The HACHI Shochu, Sweet Potato (Imo), Mizunara Cask Matured, Batch 5, Limited Edition, where traditional techniques meet the exquisite influence of Mizunara Oak for a remarkable tasting journey.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS (No Age Statement)
• ABV: 17%
• Size: 720 ml

This special and limited edition Yaki Imo Shochu, bottled exclusively for MIZUNARA, showcases the delicate flavors of grilled sweet potato. With an ABV of 17%, it allows the rich, roasted sweet potato notes to come through on the mid to back palate, complementing a variety of foods without overpowering them.

Serving Recommendation:

• Serving Style: Enjoy this shochu chilled, much like a white wine, for a refreshing experience. Serve in a white wine glass to enhance its aroma and taste.
• Pairing: Perfectly suited to be paired with a variety of dishes, its subtle sweetness and earthy flavors make it a versatile addition to any meal.

This Shochu offers a unique and refined drinking experience, bringing out the natural essence of sweet potato in a light and elegant way.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 25%
• Size: 1800 ml

Shochu is a distilled spirit that is becoming increasingly popular globally, similar to sake. This bottling is crafted by the artisanal distiller Okubo Shuzo in Kagoshima, Japan, and represents a special bottling for the Tohoku Project. It is made using two different sweet potato varieties—Baked Tama Akane and Kogane Sengan—along with Ki-Kome Koji (Hitomebore from Miyagi Prefecture) and distilled under atmospheric pressure.

As a Honkaku Shochu, it showcases the fruitiness reminiscent of tropical and citrus fruits derived from Tama Akane, balanced by the rich depth of Kogane Sengan and rounded off by the unique Koji. The roasted sweet potato contributes a richer aroma, creating a harmonious blend that highlights the essence of the ingredients.

Recommended Ways to Drink: While there are many ways to enjoy it, we suggest:

1. On the rocks - to savor its rich flavors.
2. With sparkling soda water - to showcase the refreshing fruity notes.
3. With hot water - for a comforting experience.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Inviting aromas of roasted sweet potato with hints of tropical fruits and subtle earthiness.
• Palate: A delightful combination of fruity notes, including citrus and tropical nuances, complemented by the rich sweetness of roasted sweet potato.
• Finish: A smooth and warming finish with lingering sweetness and a touch of spice, inviting you to take another sip.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 25%
• Size: 720 ml

Shochu, a distilled spirit gaining global popularity akin to sake, is represented here by Okubo Shuzo's flagship product, crafted in Kagoshima, Japan. This particular bottling is made from baked sweet potato (Yaki Imo) and black rice malt.

Awards: HKIWSC Silver in 2018 and 2019.

• Region: Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 25%
• Size: 720 ml

Samurai No Mon is crafted using a unique blend of sweet potatoes, prominently featuring the “Genji-imo” variety, combined with a special breed of rice that dates back to the Samurai era. This rice has been meticulously bred for the first time in 154 years from just 7 grams of rice seeds, resulting in a truly exceptional spirit.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Deep umami aroma with floral undertones.
• Palate: Slightly sweet, crisp, and delicately spicy, presenting a complexity that lingers beautifully.
• Finish: Gentle and easy to drink, making it perfect for various serving styles.

Enjoy Samurai No Mon straight, on the rocks, or in an Oyuwari (with hot water), which enhances its rich aroma and flavors. It pairs exceptionally well with fried fish and meat, spicy dishes, and even sweet desserts.

Awards:

• HKIWSC Silver 2018
• HKIWSC Bronze 2019
• Los Angeles International Spirits Competition Silver 2018

• Region: Kagoshima, Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS (No Age Statement)
• ABV: 25%
• Size: 720ml or 1800ml

Beni Haruka Yaki Imo is a limited edition shochu crafted using Kome (rice) koji and the unique "Beni Haruka" breed of sweet potato, which is baked to enhance its natural sweetness. This exclusive release from Okubo Shuzo captures the essence of its ingredients, resulting in a rich and full-bodied flavor profile. The Beni Haruka sweet potato features a spindle shape with red-purple skin and yellow-white flesh, known for its moist texture and refreshing sweet taste.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromas of baked sweet potato with hints of earthiness and subtle sweetness.
• Palate: A velvety mouthfeel that delivers flavors of rich, roasted sweet potato, complemented by a creamy sweetness and delicate rice notes.
• Finish: A smooth and warming finish, leaving a lingering sweetness that invites another sip.

• Region: Kagoshima, Japan
• Distillery: Okubo Shuzo
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 37%
• Size: 720 ml

Kanpou translates to "Sweet Treasure," and this Shochu embodies its name. As a Koshu Genshu, it is matured for over three years in tanks and bottled at cask strength without any dilution. This traditional method involves topping up the tank with new genshu each year, resulting in a harmonious blend that captures the full taste of its rich aroma.

The key ingredients include Kogane Sengan sweet potatoes and Black Rice Koji, contributing to a velvety mouthfeel with intense sweet potato fruity flavors. This makes it an ideal drink to savor on the rocks, allowing the complex notes to unfold beautifully with each sip.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The aroma is rich and inviting, showcasing pronounced sweet potato notes complemented by hints of vanilla and earthy undertones.
• Palate: On the palate, the flavor is beautifully layered, with a smooth and creamy texture. The sweetness of the sweet potato is balanced by subtle hints of spice and roasted nuts, creating a well-rounded experience.
• Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a warm, fruity essence that lingers pleasantly, making you crave another sip.

Region: Kagoshima, Japan

Distillery: Wakashio Shuzo

Ingredients: Satsuma Imo (Sweet Potato), Rice Koji 

Age: NAS

ABV: 25%

Size: 900 ml / 1800 ml

This year's (2025) theme, is " Ready for anything!! - Bring it on! " This is a film that gives you the confidence to encourage yourself by saying "I'll pound my chest and be okay no matter what" even in a rapidly changing society. 

While staying true to GLOW’s signature fruity flair, this fragrance blends the sweet, noble aroma reminiscent of wisteria flowers with notes of plum, raisin, and yogurt. It features the rich sweetness of honeyed sweet potato, balanced by the tart, tangy finish of blackcurrant. 

The Wakashio GLOW Shochu series transcends traditional specifications, driven by a simple desire for enjoyment. GLOW series challenge the possibilities of shochu, inviting everyone to explore and savor its unique flavors.

Region: Kagoshima, Japan

Distillery: Wakashio Shuzo

Ingredients: Satsuma Imo (Sweet Potato), Rice Koji 

Age: NAS

ABV: 25%

Size: 900 ml / 1800 ml

This 2022 version of GLOW used a different variety of sweet potato than originally planned, due to the effects of the local sweet potato blight. To our surprise, we ended up creating a wonderful flavor. 

Grand prize winner, also in the shochu division, 1st “ Sakai ga erabu shochu taisho ” Awards (chosen by liquor stores across Japan) 

Award: 1st & 2nd “Sakaya ga erabu Shochu Taisho” Awards 

The Wakashio GLOW Shochu series transcends traditional specifications, driven by a simple desire for enjoyment. GLOW series challenge the possibilities of shochu, inviting everyone to explore and savor its unique flavors.

Region: Kagoshima, Japan

Distillery: Wakashio Shuzo

Ingredients: Imo (Sweet Potato), Rice Koji (Black)

Age: NAS

Cask: NAS

ABV: 25%

Size: 900 ml / 1800 ml

Shibushi’s other favorite local drink. Made using traditional kuro (black) koji and fresh sweet potatoes grown in Kagoshima. Characterized by the rich, mellow sweetness derived from the kuro koji, with a quality that never gets tiring.

Award: South Kyushu Sake and Shochu Awards 2013

Region: Kagoshima, Japan

Distillery: Wakashio Shuzo

Ingredients: Imo (Sweet Potato Shochu), Ginger

Age: NAS

ABV: 27%

Size: 720 ml / 1800 ml

This wine yeast sweet potato shochu is flavored with pesticide-free ginger grown in the Abandoned Farmland Revival Project in Kanoya City, Kagoshima Prefecture. The fruity flavor of the shochu and the spicy, floral aroma of the ginger are a pleasant combination that will invigorate your mind and body. 

Wakashio Distillery was established in 1968 as the cooperative partnership of 5 local distilleries. With the theme of “diversity,” they strive to make the most of our unique personalities and strengthen our framework for producing high-quality and appealing spirits. One Day Series is an exclusive line-up featuring limited edition or collaboration products created by the talented team at Wakashio Distillery.

Region: Kagoshima, Japan

Distillery: Wakashio Shuzo

Ingredients:  Oak aged Satsuma Imo (Sweet Potato), Rice Koji, Sherry Cask aged Mugi (Barley), Barley Koji

Age: NAS

ABV: 33%

Cask: Oak aged Satsuma Imo (Sweet Potato), Sherry Cask aged Mugi (Barley)

Size: 720 ml / 1800 ml

A blend of imo shochu aged in oak barrels and mugi shochu aged in sherry casks, resulting in a shochu with the sweet aroma of vanilla and roasted notes of nuts, perfect for mixing with soda water. 

Wakashio Distillery was established in 1968 as the cooperative partnership of 5 local distilleries. With the theme of “diversity,” they strive to make the most of our unique personalities and strengthen our framework for producing high-quality and appealing spirits. One Day Series is an exclusive line-up featuring limited edition or collaboration products created by the talented team at Wakashio Distillery.

Region: Kagoshima, Japan

Distillery: Wakashio Shuzo

Ingredients: Imo (Sweet Potato) shochu, passion fruit (from Ōsaki Town, Soo District and Shibushi, Kagoshima Prefecture), basil

Age: NAS

ABV: 37%

Size: 500 ml

The base of Wakashio Shuzo's premium sweet potato shochu, this infused with passion fruit from "Soo Kagoshima Agricultural Cooperative" in Ōsaki Town, refined herbal notes of fresh basil - creating tropical vibrancy and botanical elegance. 

Wakashio F-Spirits are crafted using non-standard fruits and vegetables from the Osumi Peninsula, this new distilled spirit is based on sweet potato shochu and has a unique aroma created by combining different ingredients. Each bottle captures the essence of southern Japan - a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative spirit-making.

Founded in 1968, Wakashio Distillery is a cooperative partnership of five local distilleries. With a commitment to “diversity,” they leverage their unique characteristics to enhance the production of high-quality and appealing spirits. The distillery is well-regarded, particularly for its connection to Wakashio Shuzo (若潮酒造), a Japanese sake brewery celebrated for its high-quality sake, which emphasizes traditional methods and local ingredients.

Wakashio embodies Japan's mottainai (no-waste) philosophy, merging traditional craftsmanship with innovative spirit-making to create unique sake-based and shochu-based fortified drinks.