On the Rocks
Shochu on the rocks is simply a crisp and refreshing way to serve shochu, and has become a heavy favorite amongst the new generation of shochu enthusiasts in Japan. This serving style is very well suited for those who enjoy the full flavor of shochu, but would like some of the bite taken off. Shochu of all types can be drunk this way, most notably the sweeter varieties of sweet potato (imo) shochu as well as brown sugar (kokuto) and aged barley (mugi) shochu.
The idea of serving shochu on the rocks is to chill it, not dillute it. With this in mind, avoid using crushed ice. Instead try to use 3 or 4 large chunks of ice. They will stay frozen longer, thus preventing the drink from becoming too watery.
To make a shochu on the rocks, place the ice into an old fashioned (rocks) glass, then gently pour the shochu directly over the ice.
