If you haven’t tried Iichiko shochu yet, I highly recommend it! Unlike sake, which is more known outside Japan, shochu is a distilled liquor with a higher alcohol content and can be made from ingredients like sweet potatoes, barley, and even chestnuts.

Shochu is typically distilled once in a pot still, while vodka undergoes multiple distillations. What sets Iichiko apart is its lack of sweeteners or additives, yet it still boasts a delicious umami flavor thanks to the use of koji.

Where to buy: You can find Iichiko shochu online from their website or at major liquor stores in the U.S.