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St. George California Shochu is a groundbreaking spirit that marries the traditional Japanese art of shochu making with the bountiful essence of California. This uniquely Californian shochu, with its nutty, dry cocoa notes and rich, earthy finish, is a testament to innovation and cross-cultural creativity. Crafted to complement the inventive ethos of Oakland’s Ramen Shop and their California twist on Japanese culinary traditions, this shochu represents a bridge between cultures, celebrating the fusion of flavors and techniques.
Crafted using Calrose rice, koji, yeast, and non-GMO neutral spirit, St. George California Shochu is the result of a collaborative partnership with a local sake producer. By distilling the sake lees left from the sake fermentation process and blending them with a non-GMO neutral spirit in custom-made copper pot stills, St. George has created a full-flavored shochu that stands out for its complexity and depth.
The aroma of this shochu is a delightful bouquet of cashew, pistachio, mushrooms, and dried cocoa, leading to a palate where rich umami flavors bloom into tropical top notes over a foundation of bittersweet chocolate. The finish is an enchanting earthy vanilla, lingering and inviting another sip.
St. George California Shochu is not just a spirit but a canvas for cocktail creativity. It shines in a highball, highlighting its distinctive aromas and flavors. It also adds an unexpected nuance to sour cocktails like the Grass Cutter or the Grizzly Pear. With an alcohol content of 40% ABV, it offers a versatile alternative to vodka, gin, or light rum in any cocktail recipe, inviting mixologists and enthusiasts alike to explore its unique profile.
The art direction for the label, a collaborative effort between master distiller Lance Winters and artist/illustrator Lauren Asta, reflects the spirit’s Californian and Japanese heritage. The design is a playful and symbolic mash-up of the California state flag and the national flag of Japan, with kanji that humorously translates to “angry bear sound,” adding a touch of whimsy to this exquisite spirit.
St. George California Shochu is a bold expression of artisan distillation and cultural fusion, offering a taste experience that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether enjoyed on its own or as the base of a daring cocktail, it invites you to savor the spirit of California and Japan in every glass.
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