Baekje Hansan Gunju

Description

Baekjehansangunju is a 25% ABV blended spirit from Chungcheongnam-do, made with glutinous rice, water, non-glutinous rice, spirit (jujeong), yeast, red chili, gujeolcho (chrysanthemum sibiricum), fructose, salt, and stevia. This is one of the more complex ingredient lists in Korean traditional spirits, layering grain fermentation with botanical infusion. The Baekje reference ties the spirit to the ancient Korean kingdom that flourished in the Chungcheong region, while the inclusion of red chili and gujeolcho creates a flavor profile that defies simple categorization. The nose opens with warm grain sweetness from the dual rice base, a gentle floral note from the gujeolcho, and a subtle peppery warmth hinting at the red chili. On the palate, the body is light-medium with a smooth texture. The grain sweetness from glutinous and non-glutinous rice creates a familiar, comforting foundation. The red chili appears not as heat but as a gentle warming spice that adds character, while gujeolcho contributes a subtle herbal-floral layer. The added spirit rounds the proof, fructose and stevia balance sweetness, and salt integrates the flavors. The finish is moderate and clean, with lingering grain warmth and a faint herbal-spice echo. The compact 250ml bottle suits focused tasting. Serve at room temperature with traditional Korean snacks, alongside banchan where the spirit's subtle complexity adds interest, or with savory-sweet preparations where the chili and herbal notes find resonance.

Ingredients

Glutinous Rice, Water, Non-glutinous Rice, Distilled Alcohol, Yeast, Red Pepper, 구절초, Fructose, 소금, 스테비아

Tasting Notes

Food Pairings