Geographically
Indicated
Brand
Kuma Shochu is the representative brand which proudly adopts the name of the area. Like Scotch whiskey, Bordeaux and Chablis wine and Cognac brandy, Kuma Shochu is one of the few brands which are protected by a Geographical Indication (GI) by the WTO. Enjoy the world-class taste and aroma.
WHAT IS KUMA SHOCHU
Kuma Shochu, a traditional Japanese rice spirit, originates from the Hitoyoshi Kuma region in Kumamoto Prefecture, on Kyushu Island in southern Japan. Its designation as a Geographical Indication is controlled and requires the use of local production and ingredients; the rice, kouji (malted-rice) and natural water of the area. Simple in ingredients yet rich in flavour, Kuma Shochu has been loved and enjoyed locally for more than 500 years.
HOW TO ENJOY
KUMA SHOCHU
Categorised into four major families; character, light, rich and flavourful, Kuma Shochu can be distinguished by a wide variety of characteristics of aroma and flavour. Some people prefer aged shochus, matured in traditional ceramic jars, or in wooden barrels, revealing sweet and woody notes on taste, enjoyable neat or on the rocks. Others may prefer young, fresh shochus with a delicate flavour of rice, perfect for pairing with food. shochu is one of the few brands which are protected as a geographical indication by the WTO. Enjoy the world-class taste and aroma.
KUMA SHOCHU DISTILLERIES
Kuma Shochu is made today by 27 distilleries in the Hitoyoshi Kuma region in Kumamoto prefecture. Each distillery is distinguished by their distillation methods, the quality of the rice, the kouji used or by the maturation methods chosen. Discover the passion of each touji, “master distillers”, challenging themselves to make improvements in every batch.shochu is one of the few brands which are protected as a geographical indication by the WTO. Enjoy the world-class taste and aroma.
VISIT OUR DISTILLERIES
Hitoyoshi Kuma is one of the most fertile regions in Kyushu, where the Kuma and Kawabe rivers naturally irrigate the agricultural lands. Sheltered from the winds by the neighbouring mountains, the valley offers a humid climate suitable for the cultivation of rice and the production of shochu. Discover the beauty of nature that nourishes Kuma Shochu along with the tour of our 27 distilleries.