JAPANESE ALCOHOL AND SOFT DRINKS

Japan offers a wide range of beverages that captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Among the gems of Japanese culture are whisky, sake, beer, gin, umeshu, yuzu-infused spirits, traditional teas, and lemonades. The unique and traditional flavors such as matcha, ume, and yuzu, coupled with unparalleled craftsmanship, make these drinks renowned and appealing to consumers. 

 Japanese Sake  

Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage with a history dating back over 2000 years. One of the most popular drinks in Japan, it is also enjoyed worldwide for its delicate flavors. Chefs appreciate pairing it with Asian, fusion, or international cuisine to enhance the taste of dishes, bringing a balance of flavors. Consumed neat before or during meals or as a cocktail, sake is also beloved by alcohol enthusiasts.

Learn more about this traditional beverage, the various varieties, and food pairings to offer it in your establishment. 

Japanese Beer

Beer is the most consumed alcoholic beverage in Japan, surpassing sake! Initially crafted following the German method, Japanese beer production has evolved over time to reflect the tastes of Japanese consumers. Well-known brands include Asahi, Kirin, and Sapporo, offering predominantly lighter beers compared to their Western counterparts. A must-have in restaurants to increase the average customer spend.

Discover more about Japanese beer, its history, origin, brewing process, and various brands, ranging from well-known to artisanal, to cater to all needs. 

Shochu

The earliest traces of shochu date back to the 16th century when the Portuguese introduced distillation to Japan. Originally made from rice, there is now a wide variety of shochu depending on the ingredients used, such as sweet potato, barley, wheat, buckwheat, etc. Nicknamed the “Japanese vodka,” it has become popular beyond borders for its mild flavor. It can be served neat, diluted with water or tea, and is also an interesting base for cocktails.

Learn more about shochu in this dedicated article. 

Whisky 

Whisky is a spirit made from grains, aged for a minimum of 3 years in oak barrels, with an alcohol content of over 40 degrees. Japan is the fourth-largest whisky producer in the world.

Discover more about whisky, its history, classifications (pure malt, single malt, single cask, blend), and various products. 

Other Japanese Flavored Alcohols 

Japan is rich in other exotic-flavored alcohols, such as yuzu-infused gin, umeshu, a fruity and sweet wine, and fruit-flavored alcohols (white peach, yuzu, strawberry). A range of beverages that complements your menu perfectly for an exotic journey.

Learn more about Japanese flavored alcohols to offer a unique experience to your customers. 

Japanese Tea 

Tea in Japan is more than just a beverage; it’s a genuine culture, art, and tradition that holds a central place in the lives of the Japanese. Numerous types of tea exist in Japan, including matcha, hojicha, genmaicha, sobacha, sencha, oolong, etc. In powder, leaf, or bag form, it can be consumed hot or cold.

Discover more about the various types of Japanese tea. 

Lemonade and Other Non-Alcoholic Drinks   

Ramune and non-alcoholic beverages with Japanese flavors are very popular! Flavors such as yuzu or ume attract consumers seeking exoticism.

Learn more about Japanese non-alcoholic beverages!