Omure Toji Leads the Next Generation "Everyone at this distillery must learn how koji mold grows on steamed rice before they can do anything else in the company,” said Mr. Omure, Master Brewer-Distiller of Taikai Shuzo. Wiry and affable, the second generation toji spoke fondly of the young workers he supervises on the floor of the Kanoya, Kagoshima-based distillery. Mr. … [Read more...]
Shochu Street in Tokyo
13 Kagoshima shochu distilleries will be conducting a mini Shochu Street event in Tokyo on March 2nd and 3rd. One thousand yen gets you five drink tickets, an exceptional deal! 12 PM - 7 PM on both March 2nd and 3rd. Kanpai! … [Read more...]
Shochu: The Best Medicine
One of the most cheerful and kind people you could ever meet, Dr. Takamine is one of the leading academics in the field of shochu research. An increasing amount of data shows that as far as alcohol is concerned, it’s difficult to find a drink that has as many benefits as shochu. Applying Science to ShochuI recently had the opportunity to listen to a talk given by Dr. … [Read more...]
Shochu Street 2017
One of the biggest shochu parties of the year kicks off on Wednesday, November 1st! 113 distilleries are participating this year, so if you are in Kagoshima or Southern Kyushu this week, then get thee to Tenmonkan! … [Read more...]
Okuchi Distillery: A Kagoshima Favorite from the Isa Basin
The earliest known written reference to shochu was discovered at Kōriyama Hachiman Shrine in the small valley city of Isa, Kagoshima. Dating from 1559, the reference is actually graffiti, a protest by the carpenters who hid their complaint within the roof’s rafters. They were upset that they were not given any shochu while working on the shrine, a considerable slight since the … [Read more...]