Calpis refers to a Japanese sweet fermented milk beverage. In Japan, it is most commmonly sold as a concentrate which is then mixed with cold water or plain at a 1:5 or so ratio. Calpis is used straight as a syrup over Kakigouri (shaved ice) and as a mixer in some cocktails. It takes an acquired taste to enjoy Calpis. Japanese people love fermented-milk flavor, hence they enjoy Calpis as much as they enjoy Yakult A fermented-milk beverage called Rivella is sold in Switzerland which is said to taste a bit like Calpis and Calpico soda which is sold in some parts of Asia.