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Okinawan Rice Spirit

Okinawan Rice Spirit
Awamori is an alcoholic beverage produced in the southern islands of Okinawa. Although made from rice, it differs from sake in that it is distilled not brewed, and uses Thai Indica rice rather than short-grained Japonica rice. The method for distilling Awamori was first introduced to Okinawa from Thailand in the 15th century, and was refined using a unique white koji mould indigenous to Okinawa. Awamori is an extremely robust drink, and can be 60% proof, with its alcohol content rising further as it ages.

Ryukyu Awamori “Zuisen”
Zuisen Distillery Co., Ltd.

Awamori is the oldest distilled spirit in Japan, and the method used by Zuisen to make it has remained essentially unchanged for 600 years. Rice on which the koji mould has been grown and water are the sole ingredients used, with the natural distillation process giving this fine awamori its refreshingly sharp edge, fragrant aroma and rich, deep flavour. Once prized by the lords of Shuri Castle, awamori was only allowed to be produced in the near-by town. The Zuisen distillery is still located there and strives to keep this deeply historic taste alive.

Ryukyu Awamori “Zuisen”

Kumejima's Kumesen Awamori
Kumejima's Kumesen Co., Ltd.

Awamori is a distilled liquor made from a 500 year-old recipe, using long grain indica rice and black koji aspergillus (mould), fermented and then distilled without additives or extra alcohol. This refreshing drink is unique to Okinawa and differs from mainland sake and shochu which use white aspergillus and are only produced over the winter months. Awamori is distilled all year round and its flavours mellow the longer it matures.

Kumejima\'s Kumesen Awamori