This winter, bartenders from around the United States will have the opportunity to compete in iichiko Irodori, a cocktail competition created by Japan’s leading shochu brand, challenging bartenders to create thoughtful cocktails utilizing iichiko Saiten, an umami-forward spirit boasting an ABV of 43%, crafted specifically for use in cocktails. The competition will culminate with two final rounds, held in Los Angeles and New York City.
Crafted specifically for the modern bartender, iichiko Saiten is a full-flavored expression of shochu that is perfect for cocktails at 43% ABV. A honkaku shochu, the highest grade of shochu, entrants will be expected to spotlight the spirit while also showcasing a level of creativity that further establishes iichiko Saiten, and shochu as a category, as a major contender in the cocktail industry.
The finalists of the competition will be announced in March and will face off at the Grand Finale events held at some of the United States’ most celebrated bars—Thunderbolt in Los Angeles, and Bar Goto in New York. Entrants will compete for the grand prize of an all-expenses-paid trip to Japan, including a guest shift at a top Tokyo bar, a visit to the iichiko distillery, and a $1,500 cash prize.
“We’re thrilled to be part of iichiko Irodori as it gives us a unique opportunity to showcase the versatility of the iichiko Saiten brand.” says Tetsuro Miyazaki, General Manager of iichiko Shochu. “The team is looking forward to connecting with bartenders across the country who share our passion for shochu.”
Competition Guidelines and Grand Prize
- Entrant Eligibility
- Residents of New York or Los Angeles (surrounding areas also acceptable, travel costs not included should entrants advance to final round)
- One entry per person
- Judging Criteria
- All cocktails must contain a minimum of 1oz/30ml of iichiko Saiten
- A maximum of 6 ingredients
- All garnishes must be edible
- Overall flavor and deliciousness
- Creativity and originality
- Low waste
- Submission Deadlines & Winner Announcements
- Round One: (January 10th – January 31st, 2025): Written submission, submitted online here
- Round Two: (February 4th – February 18th): Video submission
- Grand Finale:
- New York City (March 16th at Bar Goto): In-person competition
- Los Angeles (March 18th at Thunder Bolt): In-person competition
- Prizes
- First Place: All expenses paid trip to Japan, with a guest shift in Tokyo, visit to iichiko distillery, and $1,500 USD cash prize
- Second Place: $800 USD cash prize
- Third Place: $400 cash prize
iichiko Saiten – Tasting Notes
On the nose, iichiko Saiten is redolent with aromas of honeydew melon, white grape, pickled watermelon rind and kabosu citrus. There are also hints of soy, white pepper and rich barley. On the palate, iichiko Saiten has a strong start and a long finish. It exudes rich umami notes of jasmine tea, white peach, minerals and earth with some citrus and a saline finish that beckons another sip.
About iichiko
iichiko Shochu is the native spirit of Japan – a white spirit that’s incredibly rich in flavor, yet smooth and easy to drink with food. iichiko, pronounced EACH-ko, is produced on Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island. iichiko is produced by Sanwa Shurui, Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s most esteemed producers of shochu, sake and wine. iichiko Saiten is a true honkaku shochu, which is distilled only once, and no artificial additives or sweeteners are permitted. The brand’s portfolio includes iichiko Saiten, iichiko Silhouette, and iichiko Special. For more information, please visit www.iichiko.com and follow-on social media @iichiko.shochu.
