Mon, 04 May 2026 04:46:51 +0000

Soju You Never Knew Lurks Behind Those Silky Sips—What’s Actually in That Bottle? When you crack open a bottle of soju, those smooth, silky sips and subtle warmth often mask a fascinating and complex composition. What’s really inside this beloved Korean spirit? Beyond simplicity, soju is a masterclass in balance—fermented hidden depths with bold flavor. The Basic Formula: Distilled Spirit with a Tradition Twist
At its core, soju is a distilled spirit traditionally made from fermented grain, sweet potato, or rice. Historically produced via gentle fermentation and vapor distillation, modern soju retains that clean spirit base but often incorporates subtle additives to enhance smoothness and sweetness. What’s Actually in That Bottle?
1. Fermented Base
The foundation of any soju is alcohol fermented from grains—typically rice, sweet potato, or barley. Fermentation transforms starches into ethanol, creating a mild alcohol profile ranging from around 18% to 40% ABV (alcohol by volume).