Brown Sugar Shochu
When you visit Amami Oshima, you’re exploring one of Japan’s most beautiful subtropical islands. But one local treasure many visitors fall in love with is brown sugar shochu, a distinctive island spirit you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
What Makes Brown Sugar Shochu Special?
Brown sugar shochu (黒糖焼酎) is a type of distilled liquor that is made using brown sugar derived from sugar cane grown on the island. Although it looks like a clear spirit, it carries a subtle sweet aroma and smooth taste that’s both refreshing and easy to enjoy even if you’re new to Japanese spirits.
Unlike many familiar spirits, this drink has no sugar in the final product despite its brown sugar origin. What you taste is the gentle warmth and the island’s character — a smooth flavor that pairs well with both island dishes and relaxed evenings on the beach.
A Drink Only Found Here
Here’s a fun fact, brown sugar shochu can only be produced in the Amami Islands, including Amami Oshima and a few neighboring islands. That makes it a truly local specialty, a spirit tied to place and tradition.
At local shops and bars, you’ll find walls filled with bottles showcasing a variety of styles from light and elegant to deeper, richer versions. All reflecting subtle differences in flavor and craftsmanship.
The History of Brown Sugar Shochu
Sake brewing in Amami Oshima dates back to 500 years ago. Similar to Okinawa, Amami Oshima used rice to make Awamori. The production of liquor using brown sugar began during World War II. Due to the war, there was a shortage of rice, making it impossible to produce Awamori. Additionally, after the war, the Amami Islands were placed under American occupation, leading to a prohibition on trade with mainland Japan and the inability to ship the specialty product, brown sugar. In response to these challenges, the islanders started brewing liquor using brown sugar. This marked the origin of brown sugar Shochu. When the Amami Islands were returned to Japan in 1953, a significant issue arose. Under the existing liquor tax law at the time, brown sugar Shochu was classified as spirits, resulting in higher taxes. Faced with this problem, the people at that time petitioned the government. As a result, the liquor tax law was revised, and liquor meeting certain conditions was classified as Shochu. One of these conditions was manufactured in the Amami Islands.
Enjoying Shochu in Amami
How you enjoy brown sugar shochu is up to you. Many locals like it simply with a bit of water or on the rocks, which brings out its aromatic qualities without overpowering the palate. Others mix it with soda or pair it with island cuisine for a refreshing experience after a day of exploring.
Whether you’re new to spirits or already enjoy quality drinks from around the world, trying brown sugar shochu is a delicious way to connect with Amami’s culture and hospitality.