Collection: Liqueurs - Yuzushu

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

1. Selecting the ingredients

Yuzushu is made from three main components:

• Fresh yuzu: used whole or as juice and zest only. Yuzu is rich in essential oils, giving the liqueur a highly fragrant character.
• Alcohol: often neutral shochu (or a distilled spirit at 25-30% ABV), although versions made with sake also exist.
• Sugar: white sugar, rock sugar, or honey, which softens the acidity of the yuzu.

2. Preparing the yuzu

The fruit is carefully washed, then cut into pieces or zested to maximize the extraction of its aromas. Some methods use only the juice, while others also include the zest and even the pulp for a more intense flavor.

3. Maceration

The yuzu is left to macerate 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 the pieces of fruit and any residue. Some artisanal yuzushu retain a little pulp for a more natural appearance and a rich texture.

5. Tasting and uses

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

• Neat, well chilled or over ice
• Lengthened with sparkling water for a light cocktail
• As a kir, mixed with white wine or champagne
• In desserts, to flavor ice cream 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 native to Japan. This liqueur is made by infusing the fruit in alcohol (often sake or whisky), sometimes with added sugar to create a sweet, fruity drink. With its unique aroma and tart flavor, yuzu gives the liqueur a fresh, vibrant taste, making it ideal for cocktails or as an aperitif.

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

Yuzu liqueur is an artisanal beverage that is fruity and slightly sweet, pairing perfectly with other spirits or enjoyable neat. If you are looking 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 refreshing, fruity cocktails. Here are a few yuzushu-based cocktail ideas:

• Yuzu Sour: A simple, delicate cocktail, ideal for appreciating 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 has fruity notes and pleasant acidity, making it perfect as 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 an effervescent, refreshing drink, ideal for summer. The aromas of yuzu bring 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 its effervescence.
• Yuzu Martini: An elegant, sophisticated cocktail, perfect for fans of stronger cocktails. Mix yuzushu with Japanese gin or vodka, and add a touch of sugar syrup for extra sweetness. This drink offers a fruity sensation and refined flavor.
• Yuzu Mule: For a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, replace the ginger beer with a splash of yuzushu. Add a little vodka, fresh ginger, and lime juice for a spicy, fruity, slightly tart cocktail.

Yuzu liqueur can be used perfectly well in cooking recipes to add a fruity and 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 sauce or honey. It is perfect for marinating fish, seafood, or meat. The tangy flavor of yuzu adds depth and freshness to your dishes.

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 such as orange or lemon.

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

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