This variation on the classic Negroni features shochu, a spirit originally from Japan distilled from various sugars, including sweet potatoes, rice, barley, or brown sugar. The flavor can vary significantly based on the starch used. For this recipe I opted for Colorful, by Honkaku Spirits, which I find pretty fruit forward with a hint of skunkiness that I associate with rum.
How Is A Shochu Negroni Different?
Like a standard Negroni, we’re going to be using Campari and red vermouth, in this case Dolin Rouge. Keeping these two the same for this variation really allows the shochu to speak without taking the backseat to some other liqueur.
So instead of using gin, which brings a botanical, not-quite-bitterness to the table, we’ll be using Shochu. Shochu can vary quite a bit in taste, and I chose to use Colorful Shochu. This shochu is a little more on the fruity side, while also bringing some floral skunkiness to the back end of each sip.
How To Make a Shochu Negroni
I chose to go with the Modern Negroni construction, to show off the schochu and keep the cocktail balanced. However, instead of using an orange peel, I actually froze some orange slices in my ice cube. This slowly brings the citrus scent forward the longer you enjoy your Shochu Negroni. Like the typical Negroni, this drink will finish up a nice bright red in color.
Shochu Negroni Recipe
- 1.5oz Honkaku Colorful Shochu
- 1oz sweet vermouth (my favorite is Rosemont Capitoline)
- .75oz Campari
Combine all spirits in a mixing glass, fill halfway with ice (should barely cover the liquid) and stir for 10-15 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass with a single large cube. Optionally you can freeze orange slices into the ice cube or just garnish with orange peel.
Negroni Variations
- Negroni – the classic recipe!
- White Negroni – an incredible negroni variation featuring Italicus!
- Tequila Negroni – a darker negroni variation featuring añejo tequila!
- Mezcal Negroni – a smokey variation on the negroni featuring mezcal!
- Cachaça Negroni – a Brazilian take on the classic negroni featuring cachaça!
- Modern Negroni – a more balanced version of the beloved original!
- French Negroni – a negroni variation that swaps gin for brandy!