Soju, a Korean distilled liquor, has gained popularity in the global market, including in New Zealand, where more than 8,000 bottles are sold daily. The name 'Soju' originates from Korean, meaning 'burned liquor,' with 'SO' representing distillation heat and 'JU' representing alcoholic drink. It is a clear, colorless alcohol typically consumed chilled neat, with an alcohol content ranging from 16% to 40% ABV.
Soju can be enjoyed in various ways, but the most traditional method is neat and chilled. Pour a small amount into a glass and drink it in one go. When drinking with others, it's common to pour for each other as a sign of camaraderie. Another popular way to enjoy Soju is in a 'Soju bomb,' which involves dropping a shot of Soju into a glass of beer. Mixing Soju with other fruit juices is also common and provides a refreshing twist to its flavor profile.
Soju is all about sharing culture. Enjoy our Soju with your friends and family. Soju pairs well with a variety of Asian dishes, particularly Korean BBQ, Korean Fried Chicken and spicy dishes. These are just a few suggestions, but feel free to experiement with different combinations to find your own preferred Soju food pairings!