Collection: Liqueurs - Yuzushu

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

1. Selection of ingredients

Yuzushu is made from three main components:

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

2. Preparing yuzu

The fruit is carefully washed, then chopped or zested to maximize flavor extraction. Some methods use only the juice, while others 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 retain a little pulp for a more natural appearance and rich texture.

5. Tasting and uses

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

• Pure, chilled or on the rocks
• Extended with sparkling water for a light cocktail
• In kir, mixed with white wine or champagne
• For dessert, to flavour ice creams or pastries

It's a refreshing, aromatic drink, perfect for lovers of yuzu and fruity flavours!

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

This product is particularly appreciated for its aromatic citrus notes, and is a staple of Japanese drinks. Brands such as Choya are famous for their high-quality yuzu liqueurs, often used in cocktail recipes or enjoyed on their own.

Yuzu liqueur is an artisanal, fruity and slightly sweet drink, which blends perfectly with other spirits or can be drunk neat. If you're looking to add a Japanese touch to your cocktails or discover an innovative product, yuzu liqueur is an ideal choice.

Yuzushu is the perfect ingredient for refreshing, fruity cocktails. Here are a few ideas for yuzushu cocktails:

• Yuzu Sour: A simple, delicate cocktail, ideal for enjoying the flavors of yuzu. Mix yuzushu with a little 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 take on the classic mojito, combine yuzushu, fresh mint, sugar and lemon in a glass. Add sparkling water for a refreshingly effervescent drink, ideal for summer. The aromas of yuzu add a new dimension to this cocktail.
• Yuzu Fizz: For a light, sparkling cocktail, mix yuzushu with sparkling sake and a little sparkling water. This fruity, slightly sweet drink highlights the freshness of yuzu while adding a touch of complexity through effervescence.
• Yuzu Martini: An elegant, sophisticated cocktail, perfect for lovers of stronger cocktails. Mix yuzushu with Japanese gin or vodka, and add a touch of sugar syrup for extra sweetness. This product brings 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 splash of vodka, fresh ginger and lime juice for a spicy, fruity and slightly tart cocktail.

Yuzu liqueur can be used in cooking recipes to add a fruity, tangy touch to your dishes, for example:

Sauces and marinades: Use yuzu liqueur as a base for sauces or marinades, combining it with ingredients such as soy or honey. It's 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 and tarts. You can add it to ganaches, cakes or cookies for an original fruity note. It goes well with citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons.

Ice creams and sorbets: For a light, refreshing dessert, add a little yuzu liqueur to your ice creams or sorbets.

Dressings: For original salads, mix yuzu liqueur with olive oil, rice vinegar and a touch of honey to create a mild, slightly acidic dressing. This sauce goes well with salads containing fresh fruit, such as citrus or apples.