🇯🇵 Japan · Drinks
Yuzu Chu-hai (Yuzu Sour Cocktail)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
🇯🇵 JPThe Yuzu Chu-hai is a vibrant and refreshing Japanese cocktail, perfect for any occasion. It combines the clean taste of shochu with the bright, aromatic tartness of yuzu citrus and effervescent soda water, creating a beautifully balanced and light drink.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Chill the Glassware: Place a tall highball glass in the refrigerator or freezer for a few minutes to chill it thoroughly. A cold glass helps keep the drink refreshing longer.
- 2
Add Ice: Fill the chilled highball glass generously with fresh, quality ice cubes. Using good ice is crucial as it melts slower and maintains the drink's integrity.
- 3
Pour the Shochu: Measure 45ml (1.5 oz) of shochu and pour it directly over the ice in the glass. For a lighter drink, you can adjust the shochu quantity down to 30ml (1 oz).
- 4
Add Yuzu Juice: Add 30ml (1 oz) of fresh yuzu juice to the glass. Freshly squeezed yuzu juice provides the best aroma and vibrant citrus flavor; avoid concentrates if possible.
- 5
Top with Soda Water: Gently top the drink with 120-150ml (4-5 oz) of cold, plain soda water. Pour slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the carbonation.
- 6
Stir Gently and Garnish: Give the drink one or two gentle stirs with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing too much fizz. Garnish with a thin slice or twist of fresh yuzu peel to enhance the aromatic experience. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of shochu is best for Yuzu Chu-hai?+
A versatile shochu like a rice (kome) or barley (mugi) shochu with a clean, mild flavor works best as it allows the yuzu to shine. Avoid overly strong or aged shochu that might overpower the citrus.
Can I substitute yuzu juice with other citrus?+
While yuzu has a unique floral and tart flavor, a mix of lemon and lime juice (about 2:1 ratio) can be a decent substitute in a pinch, though it won't replicate the distinct yuzu aroma.
How can I make this drink non-alcoholic?+
Simply omit the shochu and increase the yuzu juice and soda water proportions. You can also add a touch of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter mocktail.
What's the difference between Chu-hai and a standard sour cocktail?+
Chu-hai (short for 'shochu highball') typically uses shochu as its base spirit and is often mixed with soda water and fruit juice, resulting in a lighter, less sweet, and lower-alcohol drink compared to many Western sour cocktails.
