By Chance

Description

Donggang Brewery in Gangwon-do bottles this makgeolli in a generous 920ml format designed for group sharing over extended meals. The name 'Eoltteolgyeole' (얼떨결에) translates roughly to 'By Accident' or 'Before You Know It,' capturing the spirit of unplanned, easygoing drinking sessions. The base is domestic rice fermented with refined enzymes, yeast, and lactic acid, with wheat-based grain starter (gokja) adding a subtle bready dimension. At 6% ABV, it keeps things light. The aroma is soft steamed rice with a hint of wheat bread, and the first sip opens creamy and round with sweetness that sits comfortably in the middle register — not too forward, not hiding either. The lactic acid component provides a controlled tartness that keeps the palate engaged through the large-format bottle. The finish is clean with a brief grain echo. Gangwon-do's mountainous, cold-climate terroir often produces makgeolli with slightly tighter acidity, and you can sense that here in the finish. It excels with a spread of mixed dishes: haemul pajeon, kimchi, fried mandu, and dukkbokki-style snacks all work, because the gentle profile does not compete with any single flavor.

Ingredients

Rice, Purified Water, Enzyme, Yeast, Lactic Acid, 기타과장, Grain Starter

Tasting Notes

Food Pairings