When it comes to Asia’s most beloved herbs, shiso (perilla leaf) is surely near the top of the list. Whether it’s wrapped around sashimi, uni, grilled pork belly, Taiwanese popcorn chicken, or stir-fried lamb, shiso brings an irresistible, distinctive freshness that elevates any dish. Turning shiso into a liqueur isn’t difficult—but capturing its vivid, natural aroma in a bottle is another challenge. Fortunately, after countless rounds of trial and error, Shinzo Brewery delivers this premium shiso liqueur!

Shinzo distills fresh shiso juice into a spirit, then blends it with their own sake, and finally adds a syrup made from shiso juice to amplify the herbaceous aroma while keeping the alcohol sensation low. The ingredients are as carefully chosen as the process: only Ohara red shiso, a specialty of Kyoto, is used. Renowned for its vibrant purple color and strong aroma, Ohara shiso is as close to the original wild variety as you can find—perfect for crafting top-tier shiso liqueur.

Pouring a glass reveals a jewel-like, deep purple color. Get close and you’ll be greeted by pure, intense shiso fragrance. The palate brings a sweet-and-sour burst, with shiso’s fresh flavor extending all the way through the finish—so delicious you’ll want to keep sipping. It’s an ideal food pairing: every dish is complemented by a gentle herbal note, and your appetite is instantly awakened. No wonder shiso is believed to stimulate the appetite!

Some research even suggests shiso has antibacterial properties and can help ward off chills and colds. On a chilly day, this liqueur is the perfect choice. If you love shiso, don’t hesitate to try it.