Shirozake (white sake)

Shirozake (白酒, given the reading "hakushu" in the source text) is a traditional Japanese alcoholic drink made mainly from rice. Steamed rice and rice koji are combined with shochu and left to mature for about one month, after which the moromi (fermentation mash) is ground. As a result, shirozake is characterized by a sweet, aromatic flavor. It is especially popular at Hinamatsuri (the Doll Festival), when it is commonly drunk to pray for children's health during this seasonal festival (sekku). Shirozake is colorless and transparent, and because its alcohol content is relatively high, care is needed when drinking it.