The best selling liquor in the world !

And you probably never heard of it. Hint: It originated in Korea. Another hint: It’s made right here in Chico, California. The distilled spirit is called soju, and people compare it to sake. However, there are big differences.

Soju means “burned liquor” because it is distilled at very high temperatures. While it is made from rice, it is also made from other starches which definitely affect the flavor. So, what does soju taste like? The common definition is that it has a vodkalike taste because it has a clean, neutral finish. However, in Korea they say, “Soju tastes like life. One day it’s sweet, one day it’s bitter, and at times it’s just clean and smooth.” It has also been described as having a crisp flavor, with a hint of apple and burnt rice.

Traditionally, soju is made from rice, but during the Korean War there was a rice shortage, so the government banned rice soju. Instead, distilleries used sweet potato, wheat, barley, and tapioca. Today, soju is primarily made with rice, but it’s not uncommon for it to be a combination of starches.

Like sake, there is a definite tradition in how to drink soju. It starts with the eldest member of a group. Everyone else pours a glass of soju for someone else and never for oneself! Both the pourer and the receiver use two hands on the vessel. You are expected to take a straight shot without looking at the person who poured your drink. Your glass should never be empty. If you don’t want another refill, leave some soju in the glass to indicate you are not ready. It is unusual for bottles of soju to have any left after being opened.

Today’s younger drinkers enjoy flavored vodkas, and soju has incorporated flavored spirits into its lineup. It can be purchased in small, juice-like boxes, and the many flavors include apple, blueberry, citrus, peach, and pineapple. However, it is recommended for first-time imbibers to drink the traditional liquor. You really need to try it straight the first time around.

Like any distilled spirit, cocktail recipes abound. In the summer, soju mixed with watermelon juice is popular. Beer can also be mixed into a libation called maekju which is three parts soju and seven parts beer. You can also top soju with lemon-lime soda. Traditional cocktails like the Negroni, gimlet, and Bloody Mary can also be made with soju. Like vodka, it is best to buy higher-priced soju as less expensive brands can have a harsh alcohol taste. ABV can range from 16-45% and proof runs from 32 to 90.

The most popular soju brand is Jinro— the top-selling liquor brand in the world. But you can buy soju made right here in Chico at the Golden Beaver Distillery: Biba Soju—California-style which is handmade from Calrose rice and double-pot distilled. Wherever you buy soju, we’re pretty certain you’ll go back for more. Gonbae!