Korean Traditional Drink

Byeolbarang

별바랑

ABV 17.5%

Volume 375ml

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Description

Geumgyedang Brewery in Gyeongsangbuk-do pushes Byeolbarang to 17.5% ABV - serious strength that demands careful handling, and the brewery delivers by blending domestic glutinous and non-glutinous rice with nuruk and water. The dual-rice approach creates a texture that is simultaneously full-bodied and pliable: the glutinous rice supplies velvet weight, while the non-glutinous rice adds structure and a clean backbone. The nose opens with concentrated grain, dried jujube, and a trace of caramel from the higher-proof fermentation. On the palate, warmth arrives immediately but without burn - instead, a slow, expanding glow that carries toffee-like sweetness through a long, spice-touched finish. This is a contemplative pour, best sipped slowly at 14-16°C. Pair it with galbi-jjim where the braised-soy richness matches the drink's weight, or alongside aged doenjang stew where the fermented soybean's deep umami plays off the caramel grain notes.