Geumhwi

Description

Geumhwi is a 35% ABV spirit from Chungcheongbuk-do that combines Korean rice with astragalus root (hwanggi) and gold-nano-treated water, creating a profile that balances herbal subtlety with mineral precision. The astragalus root — a staple of Korean herbal medicine known for its gentle, warming character — does not dominate but rather adds a quiet medicinal layer beneath the rice. The gold-nano water is an unusual production choice that the brewery credits with enhancing smoothness. The nose is clean and restrained: rice distillate clarity leads, with a subtle herbal sweetness reminiscent of dried astragalus slices — not sharp or vegetal but gently warming and faintly honeyed. A mineral brightness sits underneath. On the palate, the body is medium-lean with a notably smooth, almost glossy texture. The rice character is clean and dry, while the astragalus adds a slow-building herbal warmth and a delicate bitter-sweet quality that appears more in the aftertaste than the main palate. The mineral component from the treated water contributes a crisp, almost effervescent quality. The finish is moderate and refined, with astragalus warmth lingering beneath a clean, mineral close. The 2013 Korea Sool Awards Excellence Prize confirms its quality. At 500ml, serve at room temperature alongside raw fish, hanjeongsik, or grilled fish where the herbal subtlety enhances without intruding.

Ingredients

Korean Rice, 황기, 금나노화된 황금물

Tasting Notes

Awards

• ★2013 대한민국우리술품평회 우수상 (일반증류주 부문)

Food Pairings