Hamanoimota Shochu
A bold and earthy sweet potato shochu (Imo Shochu), Hamanoimota is crafted in Kagoshima, the heart of traditional imo shochu production. This shochu delivers a deep, complex, and slightly smoky character, making it perfect for those who enjoy rich and umami-packed flavors.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Earthy, roasted sweet potato, with hints of nutty umami
Palate: Full-bodied, smooth, with a bold depth and slight smokiness
Finish: Long, rich, and warming
Best Ways to Enjoy & Pairing Suggestions
Neat or on the rocks – Enjoy the full depth of its rich flavor
With hot water (Oyu-wari) – Enhances sweetness and umami notes
With cold water (Mizu-wari) – Lightens the intensity while keeping the character
Pairs well with: Grilled meats, yakitori, miso-based dishes, rich stews
Technical Details
Type: Imo Shochu (Sweet Potato)
Alcohol Content: ~25%
Distillation: Traditional single pot still
Best Served: Neat, on the rocks, or mixed with hot water for a warming experience
Cocktail Recipes
1️⃣ Hamanoimota Oyuwari
(Hot Water Mix) 🔥
A classic way to enjoy imo shochu, enhancing its natural sweetness and umami.
📌 Ingredients:
2 oz Hamanoimota Shochu
3 oz Hot water (~140°F/60°C, not boiling!)
📝 Instructions:
Pour hot water first into a ceramic cup.
Slowly add Hamanoimota Shochu (this helps blend the flavors).
Stir gently and enjoy the warm, soothing umami notes.
✔️ Pairs well with: Grilled meats, miso soup, rich Japanese stews
2️⃣ Smoked Sweet Potato Old Fashioned 🍠🥃
A smoky, umami-packed twist on a classic Old Fashioned!
📌 Ingredients:
2 oz Hamanoimota Shochu
0.5 oz Honey syrup (or simple syrup)
2 dashes Angostura bitters
1 orange peel
Ice
Smoked cinnamon stick (optional)
📝 Instructions:
In a glass, add honey syrup, bitters, and ice.
Pour in Hamanoimota Shochu and stir gently.
Express orange peel over the glass and drop it in.
(Optional) Light a cinnamon stick, let it smoke slightly, and stir with it for a smoky touch.
✔️ Pairs well with: Wagyu beef, grilled unagi (eel), aged cheese
3️⃣ Imo Highball (Sweet Potato Shochu Soda) 🥂
A refreshing, bubbly cocktail that highlights the deep umami of Hamanoimota.
📌 Ingredients:
2 oz Hamanoimota Shochu
4 oz Soda water
Ice
Lemon wedge
📝 Instructions:
Fill a highball glass with ice.
Pour in Hamanoimota Shochu, then top with soda water.
Stir gently and garnish with a lemon wedge.
✔️ Pairs well with: Tempura, karaage (Japanese fried chicken), sushi
4️⃣ Kagoshima Mule (Shochu Ginger Highball) 🍹
A spicy and earthy take on the classic Moscow Mule!
📌 Ingredients:
2 oz Hamanoimota Shochu
3 oz Ginger beer
0.5 oz Fresh lime juice
Ice
Lime wheel for garnish
📝 Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice and pour in Hamanoimota Shochu.
Add lime juice and top with ginger beer.
Stir gently and garnish with a lime wheel.
✔️ Pairs well with: Spicy foods, grilled meats, Japanese curry
5️⃣ Shochu Matcha Sour 🍵
A smooth, umami-rich cocktail that blends sweet potato shochu with green tea.
📌 Ingredients:
2 oz Hamanoimota Shochu
1 oz Fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz Simple syrup
0.5 oz Cold-brew matcha tea
Ice
Lemon slice for garnish
📝 Instructions:
Shake Hamanoimota Shochu, lemon juice, simple syrup, and matcha tea with ice.
Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy!
✔️ Pairs well with: Sushi, grilled vegetables, light Japanese appetizers