Andong Soju Ilpoom
안동소주일품
A premium Andong soju distillery in Pungsan, Gyeongbuk, producing traditional distilled soju in various strengths.
- Region
- Gyeongsangbuk
- Address
- 경북 안동시 풍산읍 괴정리 926-5번지
- Website
- www.ilpoomsoju.com/
Products (3)
Korean Soju
Andong Soju Ilpum 17do
안동소주 일품 17도
Andong Soju Ilpum 17 is a 17% ABV Andong soju from Gyeongsangbuk-do, made with Korean rice and ipguk (a type of koji-style fermentation starter). Andong soju is one of Korea's most historically significant regional spirit traditions, dating back centuries, and this 17% expression represents the lightest entry point into that heritage — designed for accessibility without abandoning the clean, grain-forward character that defines the style. The nose is clean and understated — polished white rice, a hint of steamed grain, and a faint mineral freshness. On the palate, the body is light with a crisp, smooth texture that goes down with remarkable ease. The minimal burn at 17% makes it genuinely refreshing, more akin to a strong sake than a fiery spirit. The rice character is present as a clean, subtle sweetness rather than pronounced flavor, and the ipguk fermentation contributes a quiet depth that distinguishes it from industrially produced spirits. The finish is short, clean, and palate-clearing. Bottled at 350ml. Serve slightly chilled at 8-12°C as a versatile mealtime companion; pairs especially well with galbi where the light spirit refreshes between rich bites, bossam for easy contrast, and sashimi where its delicate grain presence complements raw fish without overwhelming.
CleanSmooth
grilled meat (galbi)bossam
17% ABV350ml
Korean Soju
Andong Soju Ilpum 40do Gold
안동소주 일품 40도 골드
Andong Soju Ilpum 40-do Gold is a premium 40% ABV distilled soju from Gyeongsangbuk-do, crafted from domestic rice and ipguk (a rice-based koji starter). Andong has been the spiritual heartland of Korean soju distillation for centuries, and this Gold edition aims squarely at the top shelf. The production method relies on traditional pot distillation, where rice fermented with ipguk is slowly heated to separate a spirit of remarkable clarity. At 40%, the alcohol is assertive but never harsh — a sign of careful cuts during distillation that retain the heart while discarding rough heads and tails. The nose opens with toasted rice, a clean mineral edge, and a faint sweetness reminiscent of steamed grain still warm from the pot. On the palate, the body is medium with a silky, oily texture that coats the tongue. The rice character is central — warm, nutty, and subtly sweet — supported by a gentle ipguk-derived umami that adds depth without heaviness. The mid-palate reveals white pepper and a clean, almost floral lift before the finish arrives: long, warming, and dry with a persistent toasted-grain echo. The 500ml bottle is sized for deliberate sipping sessions. Serve neat at room temperature or with a single ice cube to open the aromatics, alongside rich Korean stews like galbi-jjim, grilled meats where the spirit's warmth complements char, or aged cheese where the dry finish cuts through fat.
CleanSmooth
raw fish (hoe)grilled meat (galbi)
★Awards
40% ABV500ml
Korean Soju
Andong Soju Ilpum 21do
안동소주 일품 21도
Andong Soju Ilpum 21-do occupies a practical middle ground in the Ilpum range, offering the character of traditional Andong distillation at a more approachable 21% ABV. Made from domestic rice and ipguk, the spirit undergoes the same pot-distillation process as its higher-proof siblings but is brought down to a gentler strength, likely through careful water reduction. This lower proof makes it more versatile at the table without sacrificing the identity that defines Andong soju. The nose is softer than the 40-do — steamed rice, a light yeast-bread sweetness, and a subtle floral quality that feels almost delicate. On the palate, the body is light-medium with a smooth, clean texture. The rice character is present but gentler, with a rounded sweetness that leans into grain softness rather than toasted intensity. There is a pleasant, mild warmth in the mid-palate that reminds you this is still a distilled spirit, not a diluted one. The finish is moderate, clean, and dry with a faint rice-powder whisper. The 350ml bottle is compact and practical for everyday meals. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature with Korean home-style dishes like doenjang-jjigae, pan-fried tofu, or steamed dumplings where the spirit's moderate strength integrates without overpowering lighter flavors.
CleanSmooth
grilled meat (galbi)bossam
21% ABV350ml
