Sengetsu 'Taru Sengetsu' Kome Shochu, Japan

Sengetsu 'Taru Sengetsu' Kome Shochu is an elegant, oak-aged Japanese rice spirit from Hitoyoshi in Kumamoto Prefecture, celebrated for its golden-amber colour, mellow texture, and refined aromatic complexity. Crafted from Japanese rice and rice koji, this traditional honkaku shochu undergoes vacuum distillation before selected spirits mature for at least six years in oak barrels. At 25% ABV, it reveals inviting aromas of vanilla, toasted wood, delicate nuts, and cherry confectionery, supported by a smooth, rounded palate and lingering sweetness. Carefully blended by Sengetsu Shuzo's experienced master distillers, Taru Sengetsu combines the purity of traditional Kuma rice shochu with the depth and elegance of extended oak maturation.

Product Details:

• Alcohol: 25%
• Master Distiller: Tsuyoshi Tahara
• Primary Ingredient: Japanese rice
• Rice Variety: Hinohikari, according to European importer specifications
• Koji Ingredient: Rice koji made from Japanese rice
• Koji Type: White koji
• Yeast: Kagoshima yeast, according to European importer specifications
• Production Method: Traditional koji-based fermentation followed by single distillation
• Distillation: Reduced-pressure vacuum distillation
• Maturation: Extended oak-barrel ageing
• Minimum Age: Selected component spirits matured for at least 6 years
• Barrel Type: Oak barrels made specifically for Sengetsu Shuzo
• Blending: Selection and blending of multiple long-aged rice shochu components by the master distiller
• Additives: No added sweeteners or artificial flavourings

Sensory Description:

Golden amber in appearance, Taru Sengetsu opens with an inviting bouquet of vanilla, freshly seasoned oak, roasted nuts, and delicate cherry confectionery. Subtle impressions of toasted grain and gentle wood spice emerge as the spirit develops in the glass, reflecting its extended maturation in oak barrels. The palate is exceptionally mellow and rounded, revealing a creamy texture supported by delicate rice sweetness, soft vanilla, and finely integrated oak character. Vacuum distillation preserves the spirit's underlying elegance, while the carefully selected aged components contribute depth and aromatic complexity. The finish is smooth and persistent, leaving lingering impressions of toasted wood, sweet spice, roasted nuts, and gentle warmth.

Producer’s Background:

Sengetsu Shuzo was established in 1903 by Jisuke Tsutsumi in Hitoyoshi, the historic heartland of Kuma rice shochu. Today, the family-owned distillery is led by President and CEO Junko Tsutsumi, alongside Chairman Masahiro Tsutsumi. Its seventh-generation master distiller, Tsuyoshi Tahara, continues a tradition developed by distinguished predecessors, including Toyoka Sosogi, who pioneered the company's extended maturation techniques. The name Sengetsu refers to the slender crescent moon associated with nearby Hitoyoshi Castle. Combining traditional rice fermentation, skilled distillation, and carefully controlled ageing, the distillery produces spirits that express the craftsmanship and heritage of Kuma shochu.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy Taru Sengetsu neat at approximately 18 to 20 degrees Celsius in a small tulip-shaped tasting glass to appreciate its delicate vanilla, toasted oak, and nutty aromas. Alternatively, serve over a large ice cube to gently soften its texture while preserving the complexity developed through extended barrel maturation. For a refreshing Japanese-style highball, combine with chilled soda water and ice, allowing the spirit's mellow oak character to remain prominent. It can also be enjoyed as mizuwari, diluted with cold water according to personal preference. Pair with grilled wagyu beef, yakiniku, yakitori, roasted mushrooms, aged Comté, Parmesan, or Mimolette. Its subtle sweetness and vanilla notes also complement roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and delicate caramel-based desserts.