Discover Nankai Shochu at Izakaya Juraku

At Izakaya Juraku, we love pouring spirits with a story behind them, and Nankai Shochu is one of our favorites. Produced in Amami, Japan, it's a modern take on a traditional Japanese spirit, built around smoothness and easy drinkability.

What Is Nankai Shochu?

Shochu is Japan's native distilled spirit, generally lighter than whisky or vodka, and traditionally made from sweet potato, barley, or rice. Nankai is a bit different: it's an awamori-style kokuto (black sugar) shochu, distilled in the Amami Islands. This category can only be made in that region, using pure cane sugar, koji, and mineral-rich island water. The result is naturally sweet, silky, and clean, good on its own or alongside food.

Nankai Shochu at Izakaya Juraku

• On the rocks, for a smooth, gently sweet pour
• Highball-style, crisp and refreshing with izakaya food
• Paired with grilled skewers, karaage, or seafood

It's an easy bottle for shochu newcomers and longtime drinkers alike.

Why We Love It

Nankai also puts its money where its mouth is: proceeds from sales go toward reforestation efforts in the Amami Islands, helping protect the ecosystem the spirit comes from. Heritage, flavor, and sustainability. It's an easy one to recommend.

Come try Nankai Shochu at Izakaya Juraku, 121 Ludlow St, NYC, neat, on ice, or in a cocktail.