As sake continues to gain popularity around the world, shochu is next in line. In August 2024, the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association (JSS) held its inaugural week-long Advanced Shochu Academy in Kagoshima. The event was designed to educate professionals in the global beverage industry about shochu.

The 12 participants came from diverse backgrounds—educators, importers, and consultants from seven different countries. Miho Ota seized the opportunity to interview them, gaining insights into shochu’s presence in their respective countries and exploring what draws them to the spirit. She organized three impromptu sessions focused on the European, Asian, and Brazilian markets, highlighting both the similarities and differences within and across these regions.

One small note: As we we recorded this on the fly, the recording quality was less than ideal. But the conversations provided valuable insights into shochu’s current standing and potential for promotion in global markets, so we hope you will give it a listen. We deeply appreciate the participants’ time and expertise, especially after their long days of intensive lectures.

Thanks to:

Adrian Goh (Singapore)
IG: @apgoh / @Interriceasia 
Facebook: Adrian Goh
Website: www.theartofsake.com

Chris Yang (Taiwan)
Instagram: @hockeybabytw
Facebook: Chris Yang
Company website: www.kurisake.com

Ding Liu (China)
Instagram: @dingliu91
Xiaohongshu: Fish swimming in wine (account number 1055966437)

Elvira Aldaz (Spain)
Instagram: @maldaz
Facebook: Elvira Aldaz Mezcua
Linkedin: @elviraaldaz

Fabio Ota (Brazil)
Instagram and Facebook: @megasake
Online shop: www.megasake.com.br

Fall Huang (China/Malaysia)
Instagram: @fall.huang
Facebook: Fall Huang

Francesco Braun (UK/Italy)
Instagram: @just_imbiber
Facebook: Francesco Braun

Sam Boulton (UK)
Instagram: @boultononbooze
Website: www.kokushu.info