Sula Haendeumeideu Makgeolli

Description

Sulawon Brewery in Gyeonggi-do hand-crafts this 8% makgeolli from domestic glutinous rice (chapssal), nuruk, and purified water — a minimal recipe that lets the glutinous rice's distinctive character dominate. Glutinous rice produces a naturally thicker, more adhesive starch matrix during fermentation, resulting in a makgeolli body that is notably plusher and more mochi-like than non-glutinous equivalents. The aroma opens with warm glutinous rice cake (chapssal-tteok) and a gentle nuruk earthiness. On the palate, the body is full and enveloping, with a round, comforting sweetness that recalls freshly pounded songpyeon. The finish is soft and gently drying, with a faint grain warmth that lingers. At 8% ABV, the alcohol is well-hidden within the thick texture. The 450ml bottle is designed for intimate settings — a couple sharing over jeon, or a solo nightcap. Compared to regular rice makgeolli at the same proof, the glutinous rice version is immediately recognizable by its stickier, more coating mouthfeel. Serve at 6-8°C with hobak-buchimgae (squash fritters) where the plush body meets crispy edges, or with ganjang-gejang where the thick sweetness balances intense soy-marinated brine.

Ingredients

Korean Glutinous Rice, Nuruk, Purified Water

Tasting Notes

Food Pairings