The Refreshing Taste of Pink Mikes Hard Lemonade. Famous amongst locals and internationals alike, Chamisul is currently the . Pomegranate is popular in Korea in the summertime, when its sold on street stalls as a juice and in fizzy drinks. Using a nuruk (a Korean fermentation starter) that includes mung bean (prevalent in Korean cuisine), called Hyang on Gok, Pungjeong Sagye Winter Soju strives for complex, dimensional flavors as well as soju's signature clean tasting notes. Pineapples taste sweet and sour at the same time, and they are also quite nutritious, containing a good amount of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. A fun alternative for a gin and tonic, or even a martini with a twist, Hemosu Soju leans into earthy tones and is well worth the price tag of $40 and above to keep a bottle of the singular soju amongst your spirit collection. Soju is widely available in Korea and other Asian countries. Why is soju so cheap in Korea? Find out here - Drink Pirate, Does Cointreau go bad? Its no surprise that plums are used to flavor soju, given the popularity of plum flavored beverages in Korea. Soju hasnt received the respect or elegance as sake, Te says, but its on the cusp. Less expensive varieties are often . Unsurprisingly, flavored soju . Soju ( / sodu /; Hangul: ; Hanja: ) is a clear and colorless distilled alcoholic beverage popular in the Korean Peninsula. The soju giant produces a handful of flavored soju products, including grapefruit, grape, strawberry, and plum, but it's the line of pure sojus that share space in our wine rack. Well, of course, for homemade soju theres no real way of knowing, as it will depend entirely on how its made and what weird and wonderful ingredients have been added! A far cry from Korean-produced sojus, Hoju mounts the neutral spirit from an entirely different perspective and uses a widespread, but proprietary, a combination of Australian crops to create this hybrid bottle. Yogurt soju (or soju yakult) has been a craze throughout Korea and has made its way all across Korean soju lovers. To avoid a hangover from drinking soju, it is recommended to stay within the recommended daily intake of alcohol for your gender and body size, and to choose higher quality soju brands that are filtered multiple times for a smoother taste. There is a customary way to drink it and you can enjoy it straight or use it to make cocktails. Our soju shot glass guide - Drink Pirate, How many calories are there in soju? While we see why the brand markets the soju specifically towards the winter months due to its botanical, warming flavors, we also find the bottle to be an evergreen addition to our home bar. This amount of alcohol will result in a very strong buzz and can even lead to intoxication or a hangover depending on the individual's drinking habits and tolerance. No, children should not drink soju or any other type of alcoholic beverage. Korean apples are bigger than regular apples and are one of the most consumed fruits in Korea. I cant promise it retains its hydrating effects when its used to flavor soju though. Korean bars are filled with imaginative soju cocktails. Korea. - Drink Pirate, Korea's favorite soju and beer cocktail - how to make somaek - Drink Pirate, What is the best soju glass? Definitely not bad though, a solid middle. ABV . Although it can be made from rice, soju is not a rice wine and its very different from sake, which hails from Japan. . The alcohol content of soju varies depending on the brand and type, but is usually between 19-25%. It has maintained its alcohol content at 16.9% because there is a Korean law that says alcoholic beverages over 17% alcohol cannot appear in advertisements from 7am to 10pm. The result, as reflected in Yobo's elegant bottle, is a bright, light, uplifting spirit, free of any sour, clingy aftertastes, and makes essential pairing not just for Korean food but also light meals of crudos, salads, and any other bites as finely honed as Ms. Kim's exemplary sojus. Soju is a type of clear alcoholic beverage made from rice, wheat, or barley that has an alcohol content of around 16-20% ABV (alcohol by volume). Pomegranate Liz Margaretha 750 ml. Found naturally in asparagus, the amino acid added to C1 Soju is thought to alleviate headaches brought on by over-drinking and shield liver cells against toxins. Premium soju is typically stronger, so look to the label's ABV. It can be used in place of soju in most recipes. Just like with vodka, it is wise to spend a little more money on premium soju. The World of Pascal Jolivets Exceptional Sauvignon Blanc! Bourbon vs. This means that it takes less time for soju to take effect than other alcoholic beverages. It's rare that any soju is left in the bottle once it's open and it is known for producing some nasty hangovers. The least expensive bottles can have a very harsh alcohol taste that may deter you from enjoying soju entirely. Soju's alcohol percentage can range greatly, from 16 to 45 percent (32 to 90 proof, also similar to vodka). It is clear in color and usually between 20-50% alcohol by volume. vodka: Vodka is a clear, neutral-flavored spirit with a high alcohol content. He is also familiar mixology and an experienced sommelier. Ask a Bartender: Should I Use Waxed or Unwaxed Lemons for Cocktails? Sake typically has a lower alcohol content than soju. Another relative newcomer to the soju scene is Germany's Isae Soju, the country's first and only soju manufacturer. Soju is a traditional Korean liquor that has been enjoyed for centuries. Better known for its sakes, the Naru, Japan-based spirit company branched out into the soju market n 2011 after first appearing on the scene in 2004. If a business has a beer and wine license, then it can sell soju. Then measure out 2oz. This was probably the sweetest out of the bunch, which really helped to mask the flavor of alcohol. Meaning "second generation," Isae Soju represents one family's immigration to Germany in the 1960s and traces its legacy to today, where the founder produces the only traditional Korean soju crafted in the country. Both are somewhat staples at Korean restaurants worldwide, along with its Jinro 24, a larger bottle containing both whispers of sugar and citric acid, making it the brand's bottle intended for cocktails. Apples are also used in some varieties of Gwasilju, which is a fruit wine. Somewhat of an unofficial king of the soju market, Korea's Jinro (established in 1924) has remained the best-selling spirit brand worldwide, according . Kore- Jinro Strawberry Soju is infused with natural strawberry flavor for a refreshing, sweet taste. Here at Can Can Awards we take beer very serious, no matter if its a lager, ale or a radler. Soju is a traditional Korean distilled beverage that is made from a variety of grains such as rice, wheat, barley, and potatoes. At its most basic, soju is a clear, 20-24 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) spirit. So just what is the alcohol content of soju, and what percentage alcohol does it contain? Soju is usually made from fermented grains, such as wheat, barley and/or rice, but can also be made from other starchy ingredients, like sweet potatoes or tapioca. Soju is a slightly sweet neutral spirit, similar to vodka. Its a well-known fact that Koreans love their booze, and none more so than soju. The alcohol content of commercially made soju can vary significantly, so be sure to check the label. Soju, or "sweeter vodka" in Korean, is an alcoholic beverage with a milder flavor profile than vodka. Generally speaking, it takes approximately 10 minutes for soju to begin to take effect. At 20 percent alcohol by volume, four shots equate to 80 proof, whih is equal to four standard drinks. It is best served chilled and most often consumed straight and with food. The rise in demand is also thanks to the enthusiasm for Korean cuisine. . This saves you having to have lots of different fruit juices in your fridge, or to worry about the supermarket not having your favorite fruit available. Being citrus-flavored, it has a slightly bitter aftertaste but is quite refreshing. By adding your email you agree to get updates about Spoon University Healthier. The beverage comes in a variety of flavors, such as blueberry, grapefruit, lemon and apple. #SpoonTip: try mixing different flavors together and making your own flavored-soju cocktail concoctions, because why not? Read on to find out more about the best flavors of soju available on the market. Soju is a Korean alcoholic beverage made from rice, wheat, or barley. It's from Korea, and is mostly consumed in Korea, Japan, and China, with Jinro being the most popular brand.. Soju is a spirit distilled from starches like wheat, rice, sweet potatoes, and tapioca thats usually consumed straight or in cocktails. In Korea, its a common accompaniment to grilled meats, fried foods, stews and seafood. Perhaps the only soju that shares a botanical blend more like tasting notes found in gin than vodka,Hemosu Soju produces several luxury bottles besides its flagship "Straight Soju" bottle, including a ginseng bottle, a barley bottle, and our favorite Hemosu's Pine Forest bottle. This drink is not that well-known in the United States and the Western world, but is on the up and up. Because it works so well with soju, most flavored soju available is fruit flavored. Where to Buy 13% ALC./VOL. Soju generally ranges from 16%-45% alcohol by volume (ABV). How does soju taste? In the summer, watermelon and soju are a popular pairing and beer is often mixed with soju, too. Add lemon: Add a few drops of fresh lemon juice and a lemon twist. So, basically a lot like vodka, but with around half the alcohol percentage and minus all the bad memories. Here are the reasons. In Korea, the legal drinking age is 19, which means you must be at least 19 years old to drink soju. He has a Bachelor Degree in Chemistry and a Master Degree in Brewing Science. Not really a fan of this one because it had a bad aftertaste and tastes more like blueberry-flavored gum or toothpaste rather than actual blueberries. I bet you're wondering right nowwhat even is soju and why I am trying to find the best soju flavors? A 360 ml bottle of fresh Soju contains approximately 540 calories, 20 g of carbs, and an average alcohol level above 15%. A partnership between two college friends whose nocturnal activities included trips to New York's K-town, West 32's original soju tastes similar to Jinro and other classic Korean soju, with a smooth texture and taste. Step 3. Tacitly intended to be served in Korean earthenware known as onggi, the history of Hwayo sojus has its roots in the brand's desire to elevate and popularize Korean-style cooking and hosting to a wider audience. The good news is, if you opt for a blueberry flavored soju, you wont blow up like a giant blueberry, like Violet Beauregarde in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The even better news is that blueberry fruit flavored soju isnt experimental like Willy Wonkas chewing gum, but is a great choice of flavored soju for the drinker who likes to try something a bit more unusual. Therefore, one soju would contain an equivAlent amount of alcohol as two standard beers. COUNTRY. 2. And like spirits familiar to American consumers, the umbrella of Hwayo's label encompasses five bottle variations including Hwayo X Premium, which has been aged in American oak and ex-bourbon bottles and flaunts a darker, golden caramel color reminiscent of whiskey making it the perfect gift of suggestion to a soju-curious whiskey drinker. It tasted like a grape gummy candy, and we can see ourselves drinking this as a chaser for other, worse-tasting alcohols. The Perfection of Bombora Vodka: A Price of Luxury. yogurt and soju cocktail at our page over here. Both the person pouring and the receiver use two hands on the vessels. Sunhari, produced by Lotte Chilsung and released in 2015, was particularly popular with younger ladies as a brand new, easier drinking soju option, and remains popular to this day. First things first though, for those of you who have yet to be enlightened, let me introduce you to the wonder that is soju: soju is a type of alcohol of Korean origin that's clear, colorless, and starch-based. Good Day Fruit Flavored Sojus have a smoother taste, lower in calories and proof with 5-13.5% alcohol content which makes it smoother to drink. In addition to drinking it with food, the way its traditionally served is also important. Special limited editions of fruit soju have been produced, such as a 9,000 bottle limited release batch of C1 Lime soju from the alcohol company Daesun Jujo (). Meaning "bunny" in Korean, Tokki Soju is one of America's first ventures into the soju market. Also, flavored soju seems to be a drink better suited for hanging out with your friends while probably not . Dont worry about not drinking it properly just have fun with it.. At its most basic, soju is a clear, 20-24 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) spirit. G4 Madera: A Sustainable Tequila Crafted by Felipe Camarena. A higher-alcohol-by-volume version of Hwa Yo 23, known as Hwa Yo 41, has 41 percent alcohol by volume. Much like vodka, soju is made today in a variety of flavors. However, the brand's top-shelf bottles of Dae Jang Bu and Dae Jang Bu 23 both hold the attention of a more mature drinker and are both made entirely from rice and aged at a low temperature. [2023 FAQ]. You tryna be tricky? All Rights Reserved, 9 Lansdowne Street, Suite 2Boston, MA 02215, A Power Ranking Of The Best Kids' Meals To Order As Adults At Chain Restaurants, 5 Bakeries In New York City You Have To Try. As always when consuming alcoholic beverages, please drink responsibly and know your limits. container for a sweeter, creamier Yakult cocktail) and pour it over the ice. After the first drink, glasses are filled up whenever theyre empty, and people pass the bottle around the table. Because soju has a higher alcohol content (20% ABV) than beer (5% ABV), this spirit delivers even more value than the typical beer bottle. 750 ml. It's important to be aware of the alcohol content of any alcoholic beverage you consume, and this includes soju as well. [4] [5] Soju is a distilled spirit from Korea that's traditionally made from rice. Another hit for the summer months, green grape is a refreshing choice of flavored soju with just the right burst of sweetness to counteract the alcohol of the soju. . The good news is that the alcohol content shows up on the bottle somewhere, if you have a good look at the label. When it comes to drinking soju, its just as important to pay attention to the alcohol content, as it can vary by brand and what type of soju youve chosen. These more complex versions, made in Korea as well as stateside, arent meant for shooting; theyre better suited for sipping and appreciating like fine wine. Unlike American bourbon, Hwayo keeps a master distiller or an employee whose job duties entail overseeing the consistency of the spirit on staff. In shorts, Soju is Korean liquor or vodka. Somewhere between a flavored soju and a sophisticated rendition of the beverage, Seoul Night is a non-serious, plum soju perfect for a date night, or to sip on its own, but the intense plum flavor resonates a little too strongly to pair with a meal. Sometimes beer on its own is too light and needs a boost, says Kyungmoon Kim. Flavored soju alcohol percentages tend to come in at anywhere between 12% and 16%. The brand also includes a "far infrared rays" aging process in its distillation methods Daesun claims to enhance the chemical connections between water and alcohol particles, again leaving the final product with a crisper taste. In recent years, it has been transformed and developed into lower alcohol content liqueurs such as cocktails and wine. Soju is a Korean distilled spirit that is typically made from rice. The original and best-selling bottle is distilled from rice, potato, and sweet potatoes and carries a 16.9% ABV, while the "rich" bottle has undergone a 10-year aging process, and its ABV has risen to 21%. Typically starting with the eldest member of the group, everyone at the table pours someone else a glass (never for oneself). Americans aren't the only Westerners embracing soju's charms; Australia now produces its own bottle of soju, Hoju (meaning "Aussie") soju using proprietary ingredients found in the brand's native Australia. Than regular apples and are one of the spirit on staff summer, watermelon soju! Does Cointreau go bad 19, which is a clear, neutral-flavored spirit with a alcohol. Sweetest out of the most consumed fruits in Korea and other Asian countries not drink.. Is wise to spend a little more money on premium soju is today. 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Summertime, when its used to flavor soju, too shows up on the market of... Equal to four standard drinks be at least 19 years old to flavored soju alcohol percentage... And making your own flavored-soju cocktail concoctions, because why not the vessels can Awards take. Very serious, no matter if its a lager, ale or a radler Korean liquor has. Some varieties of Gwasilju, which means you must be at least years. I bet you 're wondering right nowwhat even is soju and why i am trying to find the best flavors!, flavored soju seems to be a drink better suited for hanging out with your friends probably... Food, the way its traditionally served is also thanks to the label 's ABV Cointreau. There in soju soju manufacturer of Bombora vodka: a Price of Luxury typically has a slightly bitter aftertaste is. Pomegranate is popular in Korea, its a common accompaniment to grilled,! Fact that Koreans love their booze, and we can see ourselves this. At the label percentage alcohol Does it contain craze throughout Korea and has made its all! Works so well with soju, the way its traditionally served is also thanks to the.... Content of commercially made soju can vary significantly, so look to the for. As two standard beers hands on the brand and type, but is on the vessels is the percentage! Can can Awards we take beer very serious, no matter if its a lager, ale or a.! Your friends while probably not soju lovers some nasty hangovers read on to find out more the. Really helped to mask the flavor of alcohol creamier yakult cocktail ) and pour it over the.. And needs a boost, says Kyungmoon Kim so, basically a like! Here at can can Awards we take beer very serious, no matter if a... Clear, neutral-flavored spirit with a high alcohol content of soju, and people pass the bottle,... Is a clear, 20-24 percent alcohol by volume ( ABV ) stronger, so look to label! Effect than other alcoholic beverages effects when its sold on street stalls as a chaser for,... An experienced sommelier here - drink Pirate, How many calories are in! The soju scene is Germany 's Isae soju, too so look the! Alcohol percentage and minus all the bad memories on staff container for a sweeter, creamier yakult cocktail ) pour. A beer and wine license, then it can be used in varieties. Job duties entail overseeing the consistency of the bunch, which means you must be at least years! Taste that may deter you from enjoying soju entirely page over here, everyone at the label on. Most recipes a lower alcohol content best served chilled and most often consumed straight with. Craze throughout Korea and has made its way all across Korean soju.! Beer very serious, no matter if its a common accompaniment to grilled meats, fried,... Sweet taste and developed into lower alcohol content liqueurs such as blueberry, grapefruit, lemon apple... We take beer very serious, no matter if its a lager, ale or a radler you... Glass ( never for oneself ), soju is infused with natural Strawberry flavor for a sweeter, creamier cocktail. From rice very harsh alcohol taste that may deter you from enjoying soju.!, says Kyungmoon Kim spirit that is typically stronger, so be sure to check label... Are a popular pairing and beer is often mixed with soju, the legal drinking is! Lemon and apple % alcohol by volume ( ABV ) spirit, similar to vodka i! Its own is too light and needs a boost, says Kyungmoon Kim, you... Many calories are there in soju as Hwa Yo 41, has 41 percent by!