Otoso or toso is a type of spiced sake traditionally enjoyed on New Year’s Day (Shōgatsu). It is prepared by macerating a mix of herbs, spices, and roots in sake, though some versions opt for mirin. The blend (tososan) typically includes cinnamon bark, sansho (Japanese pepper), rhubarb, and different types of roots. Traditionally, this sake is the first thing that people drink on New Year’s Day, believing that it wards off illness and other misfortunes. The origin of otoso is most likely Chinese. The earliest mention in Japan dates back to the 9th century, when it was initially only reserved for the imperial court. It is traditionally served from a special, teapot-like vessel (tosoki).

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