JufukuKinuko : Jufuku Shuzo Looking at the bright red cluster-amaryllis flowers on the ridges between the rice paddies, I turned off the state highway into an old road. Jufuku Shuzo stands out on one side of the road as an old shop, larger than the others around it. Out in front of the premises is a bucket full of wild herbs, as though the owner is saying: "Welcome to Hitoyoshi" to those who have made the trip. Kinuko Jufuku, the lady-manager and master distiller, is a lively, pleasant character. Kinuko had the following to say about her approach to shochu production: "The 30 years since I took over the family business have created a great deal of history for us and have shaped me as a person in the process. I hope that our customers can get a feel for that history and enjoy our unadorned, straightforward brand of shochu. That is why we distill all of our product at atmospheric pressure." Her dignified stance is courageous. Jufuku Kinuko (Mugi-Shochu / 25% alcohol) The fragrant aroma of barley makes its presence felt as soon as the cap is removed. The aromatic flavor of barley quickly spreads through the mouth. Mushagaeshi (Kome-Shochu / 25% alcohol) The umami of rice is prominent, assisted by a sweetly fresh feel in the mouth.