An Easy Guide to Korean Wines

Food and wine always go hand in hand and Korean cuisine is no different. Wine is an essential part of Korean culture and tradition. Koreans have been producing and consuming a vast variety of alcoholic beverages for a long time now. However, Korean alcoholic beverages are increasingly becoming popular among food and wine connoisseurs.

There are ample varieties of Korean wines that have medicinal values and are made with a range of fruits, flowers and medicinal herbs, which ensures that there is something for everyone.

Here are the most common types of wines produced in Korea.

Makgeolli

Makgeolli is referred to as ‘Korean rice wine’ in English and is the oldest alcoholic beverage in Korea. It is made from grains, such as sweet rice, regular rice, barley, wheat and malt, which gives it a milky, off-white colour and sweetness. It is made by fermenting grains and mixed with water, and its alcohol content is about 6–8%. Makgeolli contains high levels of lactic acid and bacteria, which aids digestion and is known to improve immunity.

It is traditionally drunk in bowls and is popular in both Japan and Korea. Mildly sweet and tart, it can be sipped on its own or mixed with cocktails and served chilled. It is great for social gatherings and weekend brunches.

Soju

Soju is Korea’s most popular alcoholic beverage and is traditionally made from rice, wheat or barley. However, modern Soju often replaces rice with other starches, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, or tapioca. It is clear and colourless and tastes similar to vodka, but is sweeter due to sugars being added in the manufacturing process. Soju is often consumed in group gatherings and is also popularly mixed in with a wide variety of cocktails. This drink is ideal for a barbecue or with dinner.

Sansachun

Koreans believe Sansachun has a calming, therapeutic effect and is also known as medicinal alcohol. It is made from fermenting Chinese hawthorn, which belongs to the rose family and has a subtle fruity flavour. This drink is ideal for cold and chilly winters.

Fruit Wines

Bokbunjaju, also known as Korean raspberry wine, is made from Korean Black Raspberries and is known to be rich in antioxidants and is known to be good for the liver. This drink is ideal for weeknight dinners.

Mulberry wines have a unique taste and aroma, which makes them different from the wines made from other berries. The high concentration of mulberries gives an unmatched sweetness and flavour that not only appeals to your palette but has great health benefits too.

Wild grape wines made in Korea are very sweet. Similar to red wine, wild grape wines are believed to be heart healthy and have potential anti-cancer benefits when consumed in moderation.