Solsongju Damsoul is a traditional Korean rice soju brewed with pine needles and spruce, distilled and then proofed down with spruce tea, bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV).
The history of Solsongju goes back some 500 years to the Joseon dynasty, and Damsoul is made with a traditional recipe that has been handed down for generations and kept secret within the family. It is a rice-based soju made with generous amounts of pine needles and spruce.
The rice is first brewed with nuruk, a traditional fermentation starter of wild fungi, yeast and lactic acid bacteria, together with spruce and pine needles. It is then distilled and brought to bottling strength with spruce tea rather than plain water, so the forest character runs through every stage.
The pine flavor is exceptionally nuanced: subtle pine, eucalyptus and juniper berry with a fresh character, finishing refreshingly with a hint of juniper and sancho pepper spice. A soju with real depth for anyone who loves gin or forest botanicals.
It also makes a bright Rice Soju Mango cocktail: shake it with mango juice, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and a dash of Angostura bitters, strain over ice and garnish with fresh mango chunks and lime wedges.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Subtle pine, eucalyptus, juniper.
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Palate: Fresh, nuanced pine and rice.
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Finish: Refreshing, juniper and sancho pepper.
Specifications
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Producer: Solsongju, Korea
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Style: Rice soju with pine and spruce
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Ingredients: Water, rice, pine, spruce, nuruk
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Proofing: With spruce tea
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Proof / ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it on the rocks with a splash of soda, or use it in place of gin in a pine-forward Gimlet or Highball.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Damsoul made from?
Rice brewed with pine needles and spruce, using nuruk.
How old is the recipe?
Solsongju's tradition dates back about 500 years to the Joseon dynasty.
How should I drink it?
On the rocks with a splash of soda, or in cocktails.
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