Iichiko Shochu launches cocktail competition
Bartenders in the US will be able to enter Iichiko Irodori, a contest created by Iichiko Shochu, this autumn, with a chance to win a trip to Tokyo and a US$1,500 prize.
The competition will be held in New York, Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago.
It will focus on the brand’s high-ABV expression, Iichiko Saiten, which is specifically designed for cocktails. Bottled at 43%, Saiten is a ‘honkaku’ shochu, which is the highest grade of shochu.
Entrants must ‘spotlight the spirit’ while also demonstrating creativity through their cocktail, which must contain 30ml of Saiten and a maximum of six ingredients. Judges will consider the overall flavour, creativity and originality, and low-waste credentials.
Finalists will be announced in October and will compete against each other the following month in a series of events at top bars including Thunderbolt (LA), Vice Versa (Miami), Bar Kumiko (Chicago) and Bar Goto (NYC).
The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Japan, including a guest shift at a Tokyo bar, a visit to Iichiko’s distillery and US$1,500. Second place will receive US$800, and third place US$400.
“We’re thrilled to be part of Iichiko Irodori as it gives us a unique opportunity to showcase the versatility of Iichiko Saiten,” said Tetsuro Miyazaki, general manager of Iichiko. “The team is looking forward to connecting with bartenders across the country who share our passion for shochu.”
Iichiko Shochu was the world’s third-biggest-selling local spirit in 2023.
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