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Soju is Korea’s most iconic spirit, with a history stretching back over 700 years. Originally crafted by distilling fermented grains, commonly rice, barley wheat, and buckwheat, using a traditional fermentation culture called nuruk, it developed alongside Korea’s broader tradition of fermented and distilled beverages. The word soju loosely translates to “burned liquor,” a reference to the heat applied during distillation.
Today, two distinct categories exist side by side.
Commercial diluted soju, the kind served in green glass bottles at Korean restaurants, is typically produced from industrial ethanol, diluted with water, and sweetened with additives.
Craft distilled soju is made differently: fermented from natural base ingredients such as rice, sweet potato, or barley, then distilled from scratch with no added sweeteners or artificial ingredients. The result is a spirit with genuine complexity, a higher ABV, and a flavour profile that reflects the characteristics of its ingredients rather than its production shortcuts.
The best soju for you depends on the base ingredient, flavour profile, and how you intend to drink it. Here is a guide to the four main styles available at Sool Cellar, along with ABV ranges and food pairing suggestions.
Sweet Potato Soju
Earthy, smooth, and full-bodied, sweet potato soju is made from fermented goguma, or Korean sweet potato. It carries a natural earthiness, a rounded mouthfeel, and a warmth that makes it one of the more approachable styles for first-time craft soju drinkers. Hwashim Sweet Potato Soju 25% and Hwashim Sweet Potato 40% are strong places to start. ABV typically falls between 25% and 40%.
Pairs well with Korean BBQ, spicy pork dishes, and fried chicken.
Rice Soju
Clean, refined, and often more nuanced than it first appears, rice soju is the most traditional expression of the category. Fermented from rice and distilled to preserve grain character, bottles such as Hwashim Roasted Rice Soju 25% and Hwashim Roasted Rice 40% reward slow sipping. ABV typically ranges from 25% to 45%.
Pairs well with raw fish, light stews, and delicate banchan.
Barrel-Aged Soju
For drinkers who enjoy whisky or aged spirits, barrel-aged soju offers depth and warmth with notes of vanilla, oak, and dried fruit. Soorok is a strong example of how well soju takes to maturation. ABV typically falls between 40% and 53%.
Pairs well with grilled meats, hearty stews, and richer Korean dishes.
Sparkling Soju
Light, effervescent, and easy-drinking, sparkling soju is best served well chilled. It works well as a standalone drink or as a base in longer cocktails. SoCool is a reliable introduction to the style. ABV typically sits between 20% and 25%.
Pairs well with raw seafood, cold appetisers, and lighter summer eating occasions.
ABV at a Glance
Entry-level craft soju generally sits between 20% and 25% ABV and is well suited to casual drinking and mixed serves. Premium sipping soju ranges from around 40% to 53% ABV and is best enjoyed neat or lightly chilled.
What Is the Difference Between Diluted and Distilled Soju?
Diluted soju is produced from industrial ethanol that has been watered down and sweetened with additives. Distilled soju is fermented from natural base ingredients, such as rice, sweet potato, barley wheat, and buckwheat and then distilled, producing a cleaner and more complex spirit with no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or added flavouring.
Delivery timings:
Whether you are restocking a regular favourite, building a collection, or ordering craft soju for the first time, the process is simple: browse the range, add to cart, and check out.
Yes. Sool Cellar offers online Korean alcohol delivery islandwide across Singapore, covering soju alongside other Korean alcohols such as Korean makgeolli and beer. Browse the full range on this page, add your selections to cart, and complete checkout for delivery to your door.
FREE DELIVERY for order from $180