Baekjaju

Description

Sansu Brewery in Gangwon-do blends domestic glutinous rice, non-glutinous rice, and pine nuts (jas) with nuruk for this 10% traditional brew whose name translates to 'white porcelain wine.' The dual-rice base creates a body that is simultaneously creamy (from the glutinous rice) and structured (from the non-glutinous rice), while the pine nuts contribute an oily, elegant nuttiness that differentiates it from purely grain-focused styles. The aroma opens with pine-nut oil richness, warm toasted grain, and a quiet nuruk earthiness. On the palate at 10%, the body is medium-full and satiny, with the pine-nut fat creating an almost buttery slip on the tongue. Sweetness is moderate and grain-derived, and the finish carries gentle warmth with lingering pine-nut oil and a faint resinous note. The 500ml format and higher ABV position this as a contemplative pour rather than a session drink. Compared to Gapyeong Jas Makgeolli (6%, ipguk), this version is denser and more traditional in character. Serve at 8-10°C with samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) where the pine-nut richness mirrors the jat traditionally garnishing the soup, or with jeon-sik (full Korean course meal) where the balanced body adapts across dishes.

Ingredients

Korean Glutinous Rice, Non-glutinous Rice, 잣, Nuruk, Purified Water

Tasting Notes

Food Pairings