Takarashuzo's "Takarashochu Yawaraka Mugicha-wari" (Soft Barley Tea Blend) is returning to store shelves nationwide on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, as a seasonal limited offering in the brand's Ochawari (shochu tea blend) series.
A Rising Trend in Non-Carbonated RTD Drinks
In the RTD (Ready to Drink) market, zero-sugar options have drawn sustained attention, and "not too sweet" flavors that pair well with food have continued to trend. Amid this backdrop, mixing shochu with tea — a drink style known as ochawari — has developed into a new wave of popularity.
The Takarashochu Ochawari series has found particular favor among drinkers in their 20s and 30s, largely due to its non-carbonated nature, which suits those who prefer to avoid carbonation or find it fatiguing. Feedback has highlighted the lineup's versatility: it's described as fitting for concerts and fan-activity events, easy to drink over extended periods thanks to its moderate alcohol content, and a natural match for meals. Social media momentum, the opening of ochawari-specialty bars, and inventive menu additions have helped cement the style as a growing staple.
About the Barley Tea Blend
Following its debut the previous year, the Yawaraka Mugicha-wari blend makes its return for summer 2026. It combines six-row barley — valued for its toasty, aromatic character — with two-row barley, which contributes a mild sweetness. The two varieties are blended in a ratio fine-tuned to complement Takarashochu. The drink is caffeine-free, with a roasted barley flavor and a clean, light finish suited to the hotter months.
Product Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Takarashochu Yawaraka Mugicha-wari |
| Category | Spirits |
| Alcohol Content | 4% |
| Pure Alcohol per Can | 11g |
| Volume / Container | 335ml / aluminum can |
| Packaging | 24-pack carton |
| Suggested Retail Price (excl. tax) | ¥159 |
| Availability | Nationwide |
| Release Date | June 30, 2026 (Tuesday) |
Takarashochu Ochawari Series Lineup
The full Takarashochu Ochawari lineup includes:
- Takarashochu Yawaraka Ocha-wari – Uses "Ichiban Ryokucha" green tea for a refreshing flavor (tea usage rate: 20%)
- Takarashochu Koi Ocha-wari (2x Catechin) – A stronger tea flavor with twice the catechin content compared to the Yawaraka Ocha-wari
- Takarashochu Oolong-wari – Made with 100% Tiekuanyin tea leaves for a crisp, clean taste
- Takarashochu Yawaraka Corn Tea-wari – Hokkaido-grown corn tea with a sweet, toasty flavor
- Takarashochu Yawaraka Mugicha-wari (seasonal limited) – Six-row and two-row barley blend for a fragrant, mellow sweetness
The series shares several features across all flavors:
- Zero sugar (less than 0.5g sugar per 100ml, based on food labeling standards)
- Non-carbonated for a gentle, easy-drinking quality
- Made with Takarashochu spirit
- Crafted from carefully selected natural ingredients
- No added coloring agents
More information about the series is available at the brand site: https://www.takarashuzo.co.jp/products/soft_alcohol/ochawari/
