Sake and shochu are two of the most popular alcoholic beverages in Japan. But which one is better? In this article, we will compare and contrast these two drinks and help you decide which one is right for you!
What Is Shochu?
Japanese Shochu is a Japanese distilled liquor made from either rice, barley, sweet potatoes, or buckwheat. It is typically around 25% alcohol by volume (ABV) and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with hot or cold water or soda.
What Is Sake?
Sake is a Japanese rice wine that is typically around 15-20% ABV. The production process is made by fermenting rice grains that has been polished to remove the bran. Sake can be enjoyed chilled, at room temperature, or warmed. Sake is often referred to as Japanese Vodka.
How Do They Taste?
Shochu tends to have a stronger flavor than sake due to the distillation process. It can be described as earthy, smoky, or even sweet depending on the type of shochu. Sake, on the other hand, is typically lighter and more delicate in flavor.
How To Serve Shochu?
Shochu distilled spirit can be served neat, on the rocks, or diluted with water or soda.
How To Serve Sake?
Sake is typically consumed chilled, at room temperature, or warmed.
Shochu Alcohol Content
Shochu is typically around 25% alcohol by volume.
Sake Alcohol Content
Sake is typically around 15-20% alcohol by volume.
Price Of Sake
The price of sake varies depending on the quality. Lower-quality sake can be as cheap as $20, while premium sake can cost over $100.
Price Of Shochu
The price of shochu also varies depending on the quality. Lower-quality shochu can be around $30, while premium shochu can cost over $200.
Shoju Food Pairing
Shochu pairs well with bolder flavors such as grilled meats, stews, and curries.
Sake Food Pairing
Sake pairs well with lighter fare such as sushi, sashimi, and tempura.
When Should You Choose Shoju?
Shochu is a great choice if you are looking for a strong drink with a bold flavor.
When Should You Choose Sake?
Sake is a perfect choice if you want a light and refreshing beverage.
Can You Combine Sake And Shochu?
Yes, you can! This combination is called “chuhai” and it is a popular drink in Japan.
So, what’s the verdict? Which drink should you choose? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a strong drink with bold flavors, then shochu is the way to go. If you want a light and refreshing beverage, then sake is your best bet. And if you can’t decide between the two, then try combining them into a chuhai! Whichever drink you choose, we hope you enjoy it!
