Paul Kushner
Rice vodka, also known as shochu, is a traditional Japanese spirit that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Made from fermented rice, this clear, smooth liquor has a mild flavor and a slightly sweet aroma. Unlike other types of vodka, rice vodka is often enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed, which allows the delicate flavors to really shine through.
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Rice vodka is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into a variety of cocktails. Its unique flavor profile makes it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter, less assertive spirit. It’s also a great option for those who are looking for a gluten-free alternative to other types of alcohol. So, whether you’re a seasoned vodka drinker or just looking to try something new, rice vodka is definitely worth a try.
Ukiyo Rice Vodka
Ukiyo Rice Vodka is manufactured on the island of Okinawa in Japan. This Japanese vodka is made from long-grain Indica rice distilled into a traditional Awamori Japanese spirit. Then, it is redistilled into Ukiyo Rice Vodka. This vodka is unlike others because it is not a flavorless liquor. Instead, you will notice a light but fragrant aroma and taste.
Manufacturer: Ukiyo Country of Origin: Japan
Haku Vodka By Suntory
Haku Vodka by Suntory goes through a process unique to its parent manufacturer, Suntory, in Kagoshima, Kyushu. White rice is mashed and fermented, then distilled through pot stills to make a rice spirit. Then it undergoes two more distilling processes that give it its unique flavor that is soft, round, and subtlety sweet.
Manufacturer: Suntory Country of Origin: Japan
JT Meleck Louisiana Rice Vodka
Unlike most rice vodkas on our list, the JT Meleck Louisiana Rice Vodka is made in the United States. This rice vodka reaches 191 proof in the distilling process, then is brought down to 80 proof. It has a hint of sweetness and a touch of vanilla when it hits your tongue. It is a pleasantly smooth vodka that can hold its own among Japanese rice vodkas.
Manufacturer: JT Meleck Country of Origin: United States
Kissui Vodka
Kissui Rice Vodka is imported from Japan, where it is expertly crafted and bottled. It is made from the famous soft water in Kyoto’s Fushimi district, then distilled in a unique process called Super-Allospas that sets it apart from the rest. Kissui is a smooth vodka that is enjoyable with or without a mixer!Â
Manufacturer: Takara Country of Origin: Japan
Kanpeki Rice Vodka
Kanpeki Rice Vodka is the product of two New Jersey brothers who opened a distillery in 2017 in a 125-year-old building. Kanpeki is an interesting rice vodka because the lead flavor is cherry, but it finishes with a semi-dry flavor of cherry blossom and white pepper.Â
Manufacturer: Milk Street Distillery Country of Origin: United States
Kai Vodka
Kai Vodka differs from the rest on our list because its rice vodka comes in six flavors. Beyond their original flavor, it also comes in young coconut, lemongrass ginger, lychee, coconut pandan, and lemongrass. Their original flavor, Kai Vodka, is naturally sweet with an almost sake-like finish and tastes great mixed or straight.Â
Manufacturer: Kai Country of Origin: United States
Vinn Vodka
Vinn Vodka is the first rice vodka to be produced and bottled in the United States. What makes it unique is the use of a seven-generation-old family recipe to create smooth vodka that can be sipped straight or mixed into a cocktail. It is produced in small batches to ensure quality, so you know you are always getting the best!
Manufacturer: Vinn Country of Origin: United States
My son received a bottle of Bedlam vodka as a gift. After trying it, and falling in love, I was terribly disappointed to find out the distillery is no longer in business and I cannot find any stores that even carry similar. Some have never even heard of rice vodka. I live in Bonita Springs, FL and wonder if you can provide any information that may help. I drink high end brands, Kettle One, Grey Goose, etc. on the rocks or martini. Nothing comes close to what I so enjoyed. Thanks for any assistance or advice. It would be greatly appreciated.