Collection: Liqueurs - Yuzushu

Yuzushu (柚子酒) is a Japanese liqueur made from yuzu, a citrus fruit emblematic of Japan, prized for its intense aroma and tangy flavor. Its production follows a process similar to that of umeshu, but with some specific differences.

1. Selection of ingredients

Yuzushu is made from three main components:

• Fresh yuzu: used whole or just the juice and zest. Yuzu is rich in essential oils, which gives the liqueur a very fragrant character.
• Alcohol: often neutral shochu (or a distilled spirit at 25-30°), but there are also versions based on sake.
• Sugar: white sugar, rock sugar, or honey, which softens the acidity of the yuzu.

2. Preparation of the yuzu

The fruits are carefully washed, then cut into pieces or zested to maximize aroma extraction. Some methods use only the juice, while others also incorporate the zest and even the pulp for a more intense flavor.

3. Maceration

The yuzu is macerated with the alcohol and sugar in a large airtight container. This maceration can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the desired aromatic intensity.

4. Filtration and bottling

After maceration, the liqueur is filtered to remove fruit pieces and residues. Some artisanal yuzushu keep a bit of pulp for a more natural appearance and a rich texture.

5. Tasting and uses

Yuzushu is appreciated for its freshness and balance between acidity and sweetness. It can be enjoyed:

• Straight, well chilled or on the rocks
• Mixed with sparkling water for a light cocktail
• As a kir, blended with white wine or champagne
• In desserts, to flavor ice creams or pastries

It is a refreshing and aromatic drink, perfect for lovers of yuzu and fruity flavors!

Yuzu liqueur, also known as yuzushu, is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from yuzu, a citrus fruit typical of Japan. This liqueur is produced by infusing the fruit in alcohol (often sake or whisky), sometimes with added sugar to create a sweet and fruity drink. Yuzu, with its unique aroma and tart flavor, gives the liqueur a fresh and vibrant taste, perfect for cocktails or as an aperitif.

This product is especially appreciated for its citrus aromatic notes and is a staple of Japanese beverages. Some brands like Choya are famous for their high-quality yuzu liqueurs, often used in cocktail recipes or enjoyed on their own.

Yuzu liqueur is a craft beverage, fruity and slightly sweet, that pairs perfectly with other spirits or can be enjoyed neat. If you want to add a Japanese touch to your cocktails or discover an innovative product, yuzu liqueur is an ideal choice.

Yuzushu is a perfect ingredient for making refreshing and fruity cocktails. Here are some cocktail ideas based on yuzushu:

• Yuzu Sour: A simple and delicate cocktail, ideal for enjoying the flavors of yuzu. Mix yuzushu with a bit of Japanese whisky, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity. This cocktail features fruity notes and a pleasant acidity, perfect for an aperitif.
• Yuzu Mojito: For an Asian twist on the classic mojito, combine yuzushu, fresh mint, sugar, and lemon in a glass. Add sparkling water for a fizzy and refreshing drink, ideal during summer. The aromas of yuzu bring a new dimension to this cocktail.
• Yuzu Fizz: For a light and sparkling cocktail, mix yuzushu with sparkling saké and a bit of sparkling water. This fruity and slightly sweet drink highlights the freshness of yuzu while adding a touch of complexity thanks to the effervescence.
• Yuzu Martini: An elegant and sophisticated cocktail, perfect for lovers of stronger drinks. Mix yuzushu with Japanese gin or vodka, and add a touch of sugar syrup for extra sweetness. This drink offers a fruity sensation and a refined taste.
• Yuzu Mule: For a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, replace the ginger beer with a touch of yuzushu. Add a bit of vodka, fresh ginger, and lime juice for a spicy, fruity, and slightly tangy cocktail.

Yuzu liqueur can be perfectly used in cooking recipes to add a fruity and tangy touch to your dishes, such as:

Sauces and marinades: Use yuzu liqueur as a base for sauces or marinades, combining it with ingredients like soy sauce or honey. It is perfect for marinating fish, seafood, or meats. The tangy flavor of yuzu adds depth and freshness to your preparations.

Desserts: Yuzu liqueur can be used to flavor creams, sorbets, or tarts. You can add it to ganaches, cakes, or cookies for an original fruity note. It pairs well with citrus fruits like orange or lemon.

Ice creams and sorbets: For a light and refreshing dessert, incorporate a bit of yuzu liqueur into your ice cream or sorbet preparations.

Vinaigrettes: For unique salads, mix yuzu liqueur with olive oil, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey to create a sweet and slightly acidic vinaigrette. This dressing pairs well with salads containing fresh fruits, such as citrus or apples.