The eating habits of Korean people are changing, and the consumption of meat is increasing, so soju, a distilled liquor, is gaining popularity. However, there is a liquor that has been loved without much change from the past. It is makgeolli! It is also called makgeolli because it is unfiltered liquor.

Makgeolli is one of Korea's representative traditional liquors, made from rice, nuruk (fermented rice), and water. Glutinous rice or white rice is used, and the taste and aroma vary depending on the type of nuruk. Makgeolli is bottled without filtering the fermented liquor, and the lees are put in as they are. It is characterized by its cloudy color and earthy taste compared to other traditional liquors.

Makgeolli has played an important role in Korea's liquor culture. Its tradition as a people's liquor was established during the Goryeo Dynasty, and it was enjoyed in everyday life, brewed in villages or directly in farming households. It was a drink that was always present at various events, such as snacks during farm work, festivals, weddings, and funerals.

In the past, 'makgeolli' had a strong image as a liquor for the common people or the elderly. Nowadays, with improvements in taste, aroma, and preservation methods, it has become a drink enjoyed by all people regardless of age or social class. Fruit makgeolli, such as strawberry and mango, are particularly popular among younger generations! Now let me recommend a few products.

Neurinmaeul Makgeolli

This is Neurinmaeul Makgeolli from Baesangmyeonju. It is said that you can taste the pure taste because it is brewed only with rice, nuruk, and water without artificial sweeteners. It is said that you can taste the flavors of the four seasons that change over time. After purchase, the 14th day is spring, with a sweet taste, the 58th day is summer, with a good balance of sweetness and acidity, and the 9th to 12th day is autumn, with the sweetness gradually decreasing and the carbonation becoming strong. After 13 days, it is winter with a bitter taste, so if you are a drinker, you might want to try it!

Hangangjujo Naru Live Makgeolli

I recommend Hangangjujo's makgeolli. It is said to be brewed with 100% Gyeongbokgung rice, a local product of the Seoul area. It is characterized by its smooth, non-artificial, subtle sweetness and clean taste. It received an award from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the intensity of the carbonation varies depending on the storage method and duration. This brand has two more makgeolli: ‘Naru Live Makgeolli 11.5 degrees’ and ‘Bosstoki Makgeolli’. If you like the 6 degrees, you might want to try different ones ㅎㅎ

Bokseundo Hand-made Makgeolli

I recommend Bokseundo's makgeolli. It is characterized by its natural carbonation generated during the fermentation process. It is said to contain strong carbonation like champagne. Be careful when opening it ㅎㅎ Also, the particles are fine, so it is refreshing without any sediment. There is also a gift set that you can buy together with a gift bag, ice pack, and cooler box, so it seems suitable for gifts. Among the ones I'm introducing, it's a bit expensive, but there must be a reason why it's so popular.

Today, we learned about makgeolli, a type of Korean traditional liquor. What did you think? I was surprised to learn that so many different types of makgeolli are being sold. Makgeolli is also said to be rich in good-for-you ingredients, so why don't you try a new makgeolli? Thank you for reading today, and I will be back with a story about cheongju next time:)