Shochu is the most consumed alcoholic beverage in Japan. It is a distilled liquor that can be made from different bases, most commonly sweet potato, rice, and barley. It is usually bottled and consumed at around 25% alcohol by volume, though it can vary. When bottled at a higher abv, it is commonly mixed with water to be enjoyed under 20% abv. Single distilled, the idea is to preserve the unique flavors of the base ingredient and its distinguishing characteristics. With 90 Points or above, these are the top scoring schochus of 2018’s Ultimate Spirit Challenge.

1. iichiko Reserve Zenwa 2018 Edition Shochu , 95 Points, Extraordinary, Ultimate Recommendation

2. iichiko BLŪ Shochu, 94 Points, Excellent, Highly Recommended

3. iichiko Hita Distillery Barrel Aged 3 Years Old Shochu, 93 Points, Excellent, Highly Recommended

4. iichiko Reserve Shinwa 2018 Edition Shochu, 91 Points, Excellent, Highly Recommended

5. iichiko Kurobin Shochu, 91 Points, Excellent, Highly Recommended

6. iichiko Frasco Shochu, 90 Points, Excellent, Highly Recommended