Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2014

East meets Amazonas in this double-header from shochu maker Hombo Shuzo. Appropriately named Satsuma no Haoh Raaa (¥1,524, 500ml)—the latter presumably what the drinker says after the first sip—this fiery beast adds what’s reputedly on of the world’s hottest peppers to 34% ABV imo (sweet potato) shochu. The company’s website offers cocktail suggestions for those wanting to adjust the heat up or down, with one of them including Tabasco. For those looking for something a little less piquant, Hombo Shuzo also offers its International Wine & Spirit Competition award-winning Arawaza Sakurajima shochu. http://raaa.jp/ for more info. Buy online at http://meturl.com/2x