ST GEORGE CALIFORNIA SHOCHU, California 750ml

The pistachio and cashew notes on the nose are so unique, then it shifts into this rich bittersweet chocolate flavor that lingers. I've been sipping it neat and it's surprisingly smooth for the proof.

That dried cocoa note on the nose really does turn into a rich bittersweet chocolate on the palate, which I wasn't expecting from a shochu. It’s a smooth, interesting sipper that’s elevated my usual cocktail routine.

The cocoa note really comes through as bittersweet chocolate on the finish, which is such a welcome surprise after the nutty, earthy nose. It's smooth enough to sip neat but I've also been enjoying it over a single ice cube.