Everything About Soju (FAQ)

Soju is a popular distilled spirit from Korea, known for its smooth taste and versatility in cocktails.

Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or a curious newbie, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to know about soju – from its history and production process, to tasting notes and cocktail recipes.

So sit back, pour yourself a shot of soju, and get ready to learn everything about this beloved Korean spirit.

What is soju?

Soju is a popular distilled spirit from Korea, known for its smooth taste and versatility in cocktails.

Where does soju come from?

Soju comes from Korea.

How is soju made?

Soju is made from a variety of grains, including rice, wheat, and barley.

The grains are first cooked and then mixed with water and enzymes to break down the starches.

The resulting mixture is then fermented with yeast and distilled to create soju.

Different producers use different methods and ingredients, resulting in a wide range of flavor profiles and styles of soju.

What is the alcohol content of soju?

The alcohol content of soju can vary, but it is typically around 16-20% ABV.

What does soju taste like?

The taste of soju can vary depending on the brand and the ingredients used, but it is generally described as smooth and clean with subtle flavors of grain and a slight sweetness.

Some varieties of soju can also have floral or herbal notes.

How is soju different from other spirits?

Soju is different from other spirits because it is typically made from a variety of grains, including rice, wheat, and barley, whereas most other spirits are made from a single grain or raw material.

Additionally, soju is often distilled to a lower proof than other spirits, resulting in a smoother and more subtle flavor profile.

Finally, soju is often enjoyed with food and is considered to be a more social drink than other spirits.

What are the different types of soju?

There are many different types of soju, including:

1. Classic soju: This is the most common type of soju and is made from a combination of grains, including rice, wheat, and barley.
2. Fruit-flavored soju: This type of soju is infused with fruit flavors, such as grapefruit, strawberry, and peach.
3. Herbal soju: This type of soju is infused with herbs, such as ginseng and ginger, and is believed to have health benefits.
4. Premium soju: This type of soju is made from high-quality ingredients and is often more expensive than other types of soju.
5. Craft soju: This type of soju is produced in small batches using traditional methods and is often aged for a longer period of time than other types of soju.
6. Bokbunja soju: This type of soju is made from bokbunja, a type of berry that is native to Korea, and is known for its sweet and fruity flavor.

What are the main ingredients in soju?

Soju is typically made from a variety of grains, including rice, wheat, and barley.

The grains are cooked and then mixed with water and enzymes to break down the starches.

The resulting mixture is then fermented with yeast and distilled to create soju.

Different producers use different methods and ingredients, resulting in a wide range of flavor profiles and styles of soju.

Is soju gluten-free?

The answer is not clear.

Soju is made from a variety of grains, including wheat, which contains gluten.

Some manufacturers claim that their soju is gluten-free, but there is no official certification.

If you have a gluten intolerance or allergy, it is best to consult with a doctor before consuming soju.

What are the health benefits of soju?

Moderate consumption of soju, like any other alcoholic beverage, can have potential health benefits such as reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

However, excessive consumption can lead to negative health consequences. It is important to drink responsibly and in moderation.

How do you drink soju?

Soju is typically enjoyed chilled and neat in small shot glasses. It can also be mixed with other ingredients to make cocktails, such as a soju and soda or a soju martini.

Traditionally, it is also common to pour soju into a communal cup and share it with friends or colleagues, taking turns drinking from the same cup.

Whatever way you choose to drink it, be sure to do so responsibly and in moderation.

What are some popular soju cocktails?

Some popular soju cocktails include:

• Soju and soda: A simple and refreshing cocktail made with soju and soda water, often served over ice with a slice of lime.
• Soju martini: A twist on the classic martini, made with soju instead of gin or vodka.
• Watermelon soju: A fruity and refreshing cocktail made with fresh watermelon juice and soju, often served in a hollowed-out watermelon.
• Bombay soju: A cocktail made with soju and Bombay Sapphire gin, garnished with a sprig of rosemary or thyme.
• Cucumber soju: A light and refreshing cocktail made with fresh cucumber juice and soju, often served over ice with a slice of cucumber.

Remember to drink responsibly and in moderation.

How do you pronounce soju?

Soju is pronounced soh-ju.

What are the rules and regulations for producing soju?

In Korea, the production and labeling of soju is regulated by the Liquor Tax Law.

In order to be classified as soju, the spirit must be made from a mixture of grains, including rice, wheat, and barley, and must have an alcohol content of no more than 45% ABV.

Additionally, soju must be distilled in Korea and can only be sold in bottles that hold no more than 375 milliliters.

There are also regulations in place to ensure that soju is free from harmful additives and contaminants.

What are the main regions where soju is produced in Korea?

Some of the main regions where soju is produced in Korea include Andong, Jeonju, Jinju, and Gyeongju.

What are the different styles of soju?

There are several different styles of soju, including:

1. Classic soju: This is the most common type of soju and is made from a combination of grains, including rice, wheat, and barley.
2. Fruit-flavored soju: This type of soju is infused with fruit flavors, such as grapefruit, strawberry, and peach.
3. Herbal soju: This type of soju is infused with herbs, such as ginseng and ginger, and is believed to have health benefits.
4. Premium soju: This type of soju is made from high-quality ingredients and is often more expensive than other types of soju.
5. Craft soju: This type of soju is produced in small batches using traditional methods and is often aged for a longer period of time than other types of soju.
6. Bokbunja soju: This type of soju is made from bokbunja, a type of berry that is native to Korea, and is known for its sweet and fruity flavor.

How is soju aged?

Soju is typically not aged for a long period of time, although some premium varieties may be aged for a short period in wooden barrels to give them a smoother and more complex flavor profile.

However, most soju is bottled immediately after distillation and consumed while it is still young and fresh.

What are the tasting notes of soju?

The tasting notes of soju can vary depending on the brand and the ingredients used, but it is generally described as smooth and clean with subtle flavors of grain and a slight sweetness.

Some varieties of soju can also have floral or herbal notes.

What are some food pairings that go well with soju?

Soju pairs well with a variety of Korean dishes, including grilled meats, such as bulgogi and galbi, and savory stews, such as kimchi jjigae and doenjang jjigae.

It also goes well with seafood dishes, such as grilled squid and raw oysters, and is often enjoyed with spicy and salty snacks, such as dried squid and peanuts.

What are some popular brands of soju?

Some popular brands of soju include:

• Jinro
• Chum Churum
• Chamisul
• Lotte
• C1