Honkaku Shochu Ikkomon
Honkaku Shochu Ikkomon is a 25% ABV (50 proof) honkaku (authentic, single-distilled) shochu in a 750mL bottle — a rare 100% imo (sweet potato) shochu from Takara, made with 100% Koganesengan sweet potatoes and, unusually, sweet potato koji instead of the commonly used rice koji. Single-distilled to preserve the ingredient's character, it is known for a sweet fragrance, delicately smooth palate, and complex flavors of chestnuts and dried flowers. It is in stock and available to order online now at Del Mesa Liquor.
- Proof / ABV: 25% ABV / 50 proof
- Size: 750mL
- Aging: unaged honkaku (single-distilled) shochu
- Origin: Kagoshima, Japan (Takara)
- Production: 100% Koganesengan sweet potato + 100% imo koji; single distillation
The Stubborn One of Kagoshima
'Ikkomon' means 'stubborn man' in the Kagoshima dialect, and the name fits: most imo shochu takes the easy route with rice koji, while Ikkomon propagates sweet potato koji — a modern technical feat — and ferments start to finish on 100% imo. The result is the fullest expression of the Koganesengan sweet potato: roasty, floral, chestnut-sweet. Explore more shochu, or explore the full Honkaku Shochu lineup at Del Mesa Liquor.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Sweet potato and toasted light rye with caraway, slab butter, and fried apple.
Palate: Delicately smooth and savory-sweet — chestnut, dried flowers, and warm baked notes.
Finish: Soft and reassuring, gently sweet.
How to Enjoy
Serve slightly cooled or at room temperature to emphasize the savory side; oyuwari (cut with hot water at 40–45°C, shochu last into tempered water) highlights the creamy texture. Also works sodawari — with sparkling water and lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is honkaku shochu?
Authentic shochu made by single distillation, which preserves more of the raw ingredient's character than multiple distillation.
What makes Ikkomon different?
It is brewed with 100% sweet potato from start to finish — including rare imo (sweet potato) koji — instead of rice koji.
What is the ABV?
25% ABV (50 proof).
Where does the name come from?
'Ikkomon' means 'stubborn man' in the Kagoshima dialect.
For shochu drinkers who want the full ingredient story — order Honkaku Shochu Ikkomon online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.