Shochu is produced using sweet potatoes, barley, rice, cane sugar or buckwheat. Credit: JALUX Inc.

Moriizo Shuzo has selected trading firm Jalux as an exclusive export agent for ‘Moriizo’ brand of ‘shochu’.

Shochu is a distilled spirit, produced using sweet potatoes, barley, rice, cane sugar or buckwheat.

Jalux will export the distilled spirit to the US, Europe, China and other Asian countries.

Based in Kagoshima Prefecture southwestern Japan, Moriizo Shuzo is a distillery engaged in the production of shochu.

Mori family fifth-generation head Kakushi Mori said: “Our family has been making high-quality shochu for over 130 years.

“Even in Japan, Moriizo has had limited distribution to Japan Airlines and major department stores. We realized that to reach the world, we needed a company with international experience in fine wines and spirits to help us deliver Moriizo to the world. We’re very excited about our partnership with Jalux.”

Moriizo claims its shochu, distilled from Kogane Sengan sweet potatoes, is fermented with native yeast in its original facility. It added that it uses Tarumizu spring water for its shochu.

Jalux has been importing fine champagne and wines worldwide, as well as exporting ‘washu’, traditional Japanese alcoholic beverages for Moriizo.

Jaluxexecutive officer Osamu Yamamoto said: “Jalux is highly trusted by our partners of wineries around the world as a company dedicated to strategic, long-term brand building.

“Working with Moriizo gives us the opportunity to promote the world about the rarest and best Japanese shochu. We’re very proud and pleased to bring Moriizo shochu to the international stage.”