What is Yuzu?
- Reed & Co Distillery
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 12
Everything you'll ever need to know about Japan’s zesty citrus and its unlikely home in the Australian High Country...
What Is Yuzu?
Yuzu (Citrus junos) is a small, knobbly citrus fruit originally from East Asia. Unlike more common citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or mandarins, yuzu has a fragrant rind and very tart, aromatic juice. While it can be eaten raw, most recipes utilize yuzu’s zest or sharp juice.
What Does Yuzu Taste Like?
Aroma: Floral and perfume-like, with hints of bergamot and jasmine.
Flavour: A unique combination of the tartness of grapefruit and the sweetness of mandarin.
Texture: The skin is knobbly, with very little juice. It has a high oil-to-acid ratio, making its zest particularly potent.
Where & When Does Yuzu Grow?
Traditionally, yuzu is grown in Japan, Korea, and parts of China. Yuzu trees thrive in cool temperate climates with well-drained soil. In the Southern Hemisphere, the harvest season runs from late May to early August. During this time, the fruits turn bright yellow, and their essential oils reach peak intensity.
What Makes Yuzu Special?
Rarity: Yuzu trees are sensitive to frost and take 5–7 years to mature, making the fruit relatively scarce.
Oil: The essential oils in the rind are as prized as the juice itself, often used in perfumery and flavoring.
Nutrition: Yuzu is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and unique flavonoids that support immune health.
Where Is Yuzu Grown in Australia?
Just a stone’s throw from Bright, Mountain Yuzu is a family-run orchard in Eurobin dedicated to growing premium yuzu for Australian kitchens and bars. Their secluded hillsides provide the cool nights and well-drained slopes that yuzu trees crave.
How Is Yuzu Used at Reed & Co. Distillery?
At Reed & Co, we’ve partnered with Mountain Yuzu since our first forays into alternative spirits. Today, three of our award-winning products showcase this local citrus:
NEO | Yuzu New World Gin: Winner of Australia’s Best New World Gin 2024, it blends Eurobin-grown yuzu with juniper, shincha green tea, and shiso for a bright, citrus-forward gin.
Koji Spirits Yuzu Chuhai: A ready-to-drink highball in a can, marrying crisp Rice Shochu with the tart sweetness of yuzu for effortless, on-the-go refreshment.
Yuzushu: A Japanese-style liqueur that combines yuzu with sugar and shochu, perfect over ice or as a dessert digestif.
The Culinary Versatility of Yuzu
Yuzu is not just a flavor enhancer; it is a culinary star. Its versatility allows it to shine in various dishes and beverages.
Yuzu in Cooking
Yuzu can be used in marinades, dressings, and sauces. Its unique flavor profile adds depth to seafood dishes and complements grilled meats beautifully.
Yuzu in Desserts
In desserts, yuzu can be used to create refreshing sorbets, cakes, and tarts. Its tartness balances sweetness, making it a popular choice for pastry chefs.
Yuzu in Beverages
Beyond spirits, yuzu is also found in teas, cocktails, and even soft drinks. Its refreshing taste makes it a perfect ingredient for summer beverages.
Ready to Try Yuzu?
Yuzu is a remarkable fruit that brings a unique flavor to any dish or drink. Its growing popularity in Australia highlights its versatility and appeal. Whether you’re a chef, a home cook, or just a citrus enthusiast, yuzu is worth exploring.
