Japan’s Oldest Spirits

Awamori is considered the oldest Japanese spirit, made of 100 percent long-grain rice and koji-mold. Made in the Okinawan Islands, it’s 100 percent sugar-free, gluten-free and all-natural. It has never been introduced widely outside of Japan. The versatility of many Awamori blends make it an ideal replacement for sake, whiskey, gin and vodka.  Enjoy it straight, over ice or in a cocktail. 

Awamori offers four unique brands. 

Shimakaze/Island Breeze has an alcohol content of 20 percent, or 40 proof. One of the smoothest Awamori you can find, it’s highly recommended for first-time Awamori drinkers and is best enjoyed straight, over ice or in a cocktail. Shimakaze serves as a great alternative to sake, with a little higher alcohol content. If you chill a bottle of Shimakaze before you drink, it tastes exactly like premium dry sake. You’ll love it! A 750 milliliter bottle of Shimakaze sells for $16.99-18.99.

Kamejikomi/Traditional Creation has an alcohol content of 24 percent, or 48 proof. Instead of metallic jar, clay ones are used for the distillation process to generate unique flavors (vs. whiskey barrel). A further classification of Awamori is kusu (aged liquor), which means Awamori is aged a minimum of 3 years.  Kamejikomi remains one of the only 5-year-aged brands in the U.S. We recommended it in a cocktail, served chilled, or on the rocks! It sells for $21.99-24.99 for a 750 milliliter bottle.

Kyouten/Heaven’s Echo has an alcohol content of 35 percent, or 70 proof. In selecting the right brands for the U.S. market, approximately 300 kinds were tasted before Kyouten was finally selected. We recommended it on the rocks—cheers! A 750 milliliter bottle sells for $24.99-26.99.

Nanpu/Southern Wind has an alcohol content of 43 percent, or 86 proof. With relatively high alcohol content (about the same level as popular whiskeys), Nanpu has a unique aroma and character that can be fully tasted. This healthy alternative offers the same great kick as bourbon. Nanpu has a long-lasting flavor that whiskey drinkers love. Surprisingly, you will not miss the oak barrel as you shoot it or sip it over ice. Salud! Nanpu sells for $29.99-32.99 per 750 milliliter bottle.

Don’t miss these upcoming Awamori tastings: 

  • Dec. 11 (Wed.), 3-6 p.m. at Pavilions – Irvine store 
  • Dec. 14 (Sat.), 2-5 p.m. at Total Wine & More – Newport Beach 
  • Dec. 21 (Sat.), 2-5 p.m. at Total Wine & More – Newport Beach 
  • Dec. 26 (Thurs.), 3-6 p.m. at Pavilions – Irvine store
  • Dec. 28 (Sat.), 2-5 p.m. at Total Wine & More – Newport Beach 

Awamori brands are available at Hi-Time Wine Cellars, High Park Tap House, and other locations in OC. 

Learn more at www.awamorispirits.com.

Sponsored by
Awamori, awamorispirits.com

 

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