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Top 8 Shochu Cocktails to Drink

I’ve explored the vibrant world of Shochu cocktails, where the subtle, distinct flavors of this Japanese spirit truly come to life. I love how Shochu, traditionally enjoyed straight, transforms when mixed with simple ingredients like juices, sodas, and fresh herbs. This collection of recipes proves its versatility, offering something for everyone, from newcomers to aficionados. The mild taste of Shochu adapts, making each cocktail a unique blend of flavors. I highly recommend checking out this roundup for a fresh take on your drinks.

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The Japanese Sidecar

The Japanese Sidecar
Source: gastronomblog.com

This recipe is a twist on the classic sidecar cocktail. It features iichiko silhouette Shochu, triple sec, lemon juice, and orange bitters. The lemon juice and orange-flavored triple sec make for a rich citrus flavor that perfectly complements the potent taste of Shochu. To elevate the cocktail, even more, rim the glass with brown sugar, creating a toasty, complex flavor.


Shochu Apple Sour Cocktail

Shochu Apple Sour Cocktail
Source: cocktail-society.com

The Shochu in this recipe is slightly fruity with a strong tang that pairs well with fresh-squeezed apple juice. This sour cocktail uses Imo Shochu, apple juice, soda water, yuzu juice, and honey, for a sweet but tart beverage. Yuzu juice has a sweet, citrus flavor that subdues the harsh flavor of the Shochu.


Old Fashioned Samurai

Old Fashioned Samurai
Source: cocktail-society.com

Old-fashioned cocktails typically use whiskey as the main alcohol, but this recipe swaps it for barrel-aged Shochu. Along with Angostura bitters, a splash of soda water, and an orange peel, the result of this recipe is a flavorful drink that highlights the rich and oaky taste of this Shochu. You can use regular sugar to sweeten the drink or make it more authentic with black kokuto sugar.


Shikoku Mule – Yuzu Moscow Mule

Shikoku Mule - Yuzu Moscow Mule

Another Shochu cocktail that uses sweet yuzu juice is this twist on a mule cocktail. It’s a simple combination of yuzu, Shochu, and ginger beer, for a potent but pleasant drink. The ginger beer meshes with the distinct Shochu flavor easily, helping both flavors shine.


Meyer Lemon Shochu

Meyer Lemon Shochu
Source: sunkist.com

This cocktail combines Shochu, simple syrup, lemon juice, and mint, for a sweet and refreshing beverage. The prominent lemon flavor creates a tart taste with bright citrus notes that work well with any Shochu. If you want a fruitier drink, opt for a fruit-based Shochu. Or use a grain-based Shochu for an earthy taste.


Yuzu Pop

Yuzu Pop
Source: nankaishochu.com

For a bubbly, sweet drink, make this yuzu pop. It uses Nankai Shochu, ginger ale, and yuzu juice, for a sparkling cocktail with an apple and citrus flavor. To make it sweeter, you can rim the glass with your favorite sugar. The drink has a well-balanced flavor suitable as a brunch cocktail or evening beverage.


Tokyo Mule

Tokyo Mule
Source: sugarandcharm.com

This recipe involves more ingredients, using vodka, Shochu, ginger syrup, cucumber, and lime juice, for a distinct and delicious taste. The ginger syrup brings spice to the drink, while the cucumber softens the bite. The lime juice and alcohol pack a tasty punch that won’t overwhelm your palate.


Japanese 75

Nankai French 75 S
Source: nankaishochu.com

This drink is a twist on the classic French 75 cocktail. The combination of Nankai Shochu, lemon juice, champagne, and simple syrup is easy to make but delightful. The champagne brings a gentle bubble to the drink, while the other ingredients foster a sweet, balanced flavor.


A clear Shochu cocktail with lime and cucumber slices sits on a sleek bar, framed by soft greens, stone, and cherry blossoms in a peaceful Japanese setting.

8 Shochu Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
4.5 from 2 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Japanese
Keyword: Shochu Cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner

Instructions

  • Pick your favorite recipe
  • Gather all the needed ingredients
  • Prep a shochu cocktail in less than 5 minutes
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
Top 8 Shochu Cocktails to Drink
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
4.50 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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