The reason this craft cola was chosen as the foundation of the Karaku Cherry Craft Kola Nut Liqueur goes beyond its distinctive taste.
Its story is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Kumagawa Artisans, who carefully select agricultural products from the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region and take the time and effort to handcraft each product with great care.
Inspired by their passion for honest craftsmanship and their commitment to making the most of local ingredients, this product brings that same spirit into every bottle.
Cherry Coke is a drink with completely polarized opinions. In the United States, it is extremely popular, with sales increasing year after year, and it’s even Warren Buffett’s daily favorite beverage.
However, Fukano Brewery in Kumamoto Prefecture is determined to reinvent the taste of cherry Coke. They used handcrafted cola made with natural ingredients such as ginger, spices, lemon juice, and cane sugar, then added fresh cherry juice and authentic shochu to create a Cherry Coke drink suitable for Asian palates, named “Karaku (cola in Japanese) Cherry”! .
If you like cola, or if you’re looking for a drink that’s perfect for a soda or a large party, Karaku Cherry Craft Kola Nut Liqueur is definitely for you.
14% abv.
Nose: Cola, but upon closer inspection, the aromas of cinnamon, ginger, cherry, star anise… all the ingredients of cola seem to be able to be separated one by one,
Palate: Much less sweet than regualr cola. The elegant layers of flavors include scallops, cinnamon, and cherry – very reminiscent of mulled wine.
The recipe features as many local ingredients as possible:
- Ginger from Ozato Family Farm in the Kuma region;
- Amanatsu citrus from Minamata, a city facing the Yatsushiro Sea where the Kuma River flows out;
- and Kawachi Bankan citrus and lemons grown in Reihoku Town on the beautiful island of Amakusa.
A carefully balanced blend of cinnamon, clove, cardamom, green pepper, and kola nut is complemented by the rich aroma of vanilla beans from Madagascar.
Cane sugar and crisp-tasting agave syrup provide natural sweetness, while mineral-rich molasses adds depth and earthiness.
The result is a pale-colored cola with a gentle yet refined flavor profile. Its delicate citrus and spice notes pair especially well with natural cherry juice, making it an elegant and versatile craft beverage.
THE OFFICIAL PERFECT SERVE:
Because it is relatively concentrated, Karaku Cherry Craft Kola Nut Liqueur can be a bit sweet if enjoyed neat.
The official recommendation is to mix it with a ratio of 1 part Karaku Cherry to 3 parts soda water before enjoying.
