Hana Soju 20

Hana Soju 20 shines when sipped neat or on the rocks, allowing its delicate flavors to unfold, but it also excels in light, refreshing cocktails perfect for warm summer evenings; its subtle complexity pairs beautifully with Korean barbecue, sushi, or other Asian-inspired dishes that complement its rice-based character.

Nose: Clean and crisp with subtle herbal notes. Hints of fresh cucumber and green melon mingle with a whisper of ocean brine. Delicate floral aromas of shiso leaf and tarragon emerge as the spirit opens up.

Palate: Smooth and surprisingly complex. Initial sweetness from the rice gives way to a balanced salty-umami character. Fresh green herbs dominate, with flavors of cucumber, melon, and a touch of grassiness. The texture is light and clean, with a gentle warmth from the alcohol.

Finish: Medium length with a pleasant interplay of sweet and salty notes. Lingering hints of rice wine and subtle umami flavors. A cooling sensation reminiscent of fresh mint or shiso leaf persists, leaving the palate refreshed and eager for another sip.

Hana Soju 20 is crafted through a unique single-pass pot distillation process, preserving the spirit's raw expressiveness and complex flavors derived from organic rice and nuruk fermentation. This uncommon approach results in a funkier, grassier, and earthier soju that captures the essence of traditional Korean distilling methods while offering a modern twist.

• Hana Soju 20 was born from a happy accident during distillation. The original plan was to use a column still, but the liquid coming off the pot still was so unexpectedly perfect that the distillers changed course mid-process, resulting in a unique single-pass pot distilled soju.
• This soju contains a pinch of salt and sugar added post-distillation, a unconventional technique that enhances its complex flavor profile, creating a delicate balance between salty and sweet notes reminiscent of a freshly shucked oyster.
• Unlike mass-produced sojus that often use artificial flavorings, Hana Soju 20 derives its distinctive taste solely from organic rice, nuruk (a traditional Korean fermentation starter), and careful distillation, making it a rare example of artisanal, additive-free soju in the modern market.