Typically only available through lottery in Japan, Mori Izo is a super limited sweet potato shochu brand from Kagoshima; it's highly sought-after and is most often found on secondary markets online. So when we were informed we were able to grab a few bottles of this, we were thrilled.
Fermented in clay pots and then aged for three years after distillation, this shochu is smooth, mellow, and very refined, softened from years of quiet reflection in its own juices. We get light floral notes of lavender and butter cookie on the nose - very different from what you may expect from more unctuous and earthy imo's out there. The palate is soft and marshmallow-textured, with light caramel, fatty dairy, and a touch of tropical fruit.
Drink this ultra-premium offering on the rocks with sliced hamachi sashimi or fresh fruit.
Distilled in Kagoshima, Japan by Mori Izo Shuzo / Distilled from imo (sweet potato) and kome koji (rice koji) / ABV 25% / Koji: White (rice) / Distillation: Atmospheric / Age: 3 years