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Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14
750ml & 28 Proof
What is Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14?
Hana Makgeolli's Yakju 14 is a modern revival of Korea's nobility-class rice wine, offering a refined 14% ABV sip with naturally occurring lactic acid for brightness. Interestingly, its production involves a traditional 5-stage fermentation process using wild yeast starters called nuruk, a method that dates back over a thousand years and was once a closely guarded secret among Korean royal brewers.
Why do we love Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14?
Cocktail enthusiasts should appreciate Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14 for its unique Korean heritage and complex flavor profile, derived from a meticulous 8-week, 5-stage fermentation process using organic rice and traditional nuruk starter, resulting in a refined 14% ABV spirit with intriguing notes of barley and grain that's distinctly different from rum.
How do you drink Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14?
Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14 shines when served chilled in a white wine glass, allowing its delicate aromas to unfold, or as a refreshing base in light, citrus-forward cocktails perfect for warm summer evenings; its crisp, dry profile pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, particularly raw preparations like sashimi or ceviche.
Nose: Clean and subtle aromas of fresh rice, hints of pear, and a touch of white flowers. There's a gentle lactic note reminiscent of yogurt, along with a faint nuttiness.
Palate: Light-bodied and crisp with a pleasant dryness. Flavors of steamed rice and barley are prominent, accompanied by subtle notes of green apple and lemon zest. A mild lactic tanginess adds complexity, balanced by a delicate sweetness reminiscent of rice milk.
Finish: Clean and refreshing with a lingering grain character. The finish is dry with a slight mineral quality and a gentle warmth from the alcohol. Faint notes of white pepper and a subtle umami quality round out the experience.
Hana Makgeolli Yakju 14 undergoes a meticulous five-stage fermentation process over eight weeks, using organic rice, nuruk (a traditional Korean fermentation starter), and filtered New York water to create a refined, bone-dry spirit that captures the essence of Korean sool in its purest form.
Main Ingredient: Rice
Country of Origin: United States
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