The Soju Guide: How to Choose the Right Bottle and Buy Online

Soju, the iconic Korean spirit, has surged in popularity far beyond the borders of South Korea. Riding the Hallyu wave and the global success of K-dramas, it has become the go-to drink for anyone looking to explore new flavours. But with an ever-expanding selection, it can be hard to navigate the world of original soju and its countless flavoured soju variations.

To help you make sense of it all, our editors have created this comprehensive guide. Our goal is to introduce you to the different facets of soju and point you toward the bottles that will perfectly match your tastes and preferences.

How to Choose the Right Soju?

Before you start to buy soju online, a few simple criteria will help you make the right choice.

1. Original vs. Flavoured Soju: A Matter of Taste

The most fundamental choice is between the classic version and its fruity variants.

• Original Soju: This is Korean soju in its purest form. It has a relatively neutral flavour profile, with a hint of sweetness and a clean finish. Its alcohol content typically ranges from 16% to 20%. It can be enjoyed neat with a Korean meal or used as a base for a soju cocktail.
• Flavoured Soju: Softer and more approachable, this is the ideal entry point for those new to the world of soju. With a lower alcohol content (usually around 12%), it comes in a myriad of flavours: peach, watermelon, grape, lychee, and more. It's the ultimate social drink, perfect for sipping chilled.

2. Alcohol Content: An Indicator of Character

The alcohol by volume (ABV) is a good indicator of the soju's profile.

• 12-14%: This is the domain of flavoured sojus. They are lighter, sweeter, and very easy to drink.
• 16-20%: The standard range for original soju. It offers a fine balance between the presence of alcohol and a subtle sweetness. Chum Churum soju is a perfect example of this category.
• Over 20%: These rarer sojus are often premium or traditional batches, resulting from more artisanal distillation methods.

3. The Occasion: The Right Soju for Every Moment

The drinking occasion is also an excellent guide. For a Korean barbecue with friends, sharing an original soju is a timeless classic. For a summer aperitif or for mixing light and fruity cocktails, a watermelon soju or peach soju will be the perfect fit. The price of soju can also be a factor, as flavoured versions are often very affordable.

Top Soju Picks to Try

To help you navigate the world of soju, here is a selection of products with diverse profiles, all available on our platform.

TONEIDO Watermelon Soju 12% 360 ml

Why It Stands Out

This watermelon soju stands out from the crowd with its apple wine base, which gives it a unique freshness and lightness. It's a modern take on soju that focuses on fruit-forward accessibility without losing its Korean touch.

Highlights

• Flavour: A pronounced and ultra-refreshing watermelon taste, ideal for hot days.
• Innovative Base: The use of apple wine adds an extra fruity note and a very smooth finish.
• Low Alcohol Content: At 12% ABV, it's perfect for easy and pleasant sipping, even for newcomers.

Who Is It For?

Ideal for those discovering the world of flavoured soju or looking for a light and fruity aperitif. It's an excellent choice for livening up a summer evening or for making a simple and delicious soju cocktail.

CHUMCHURUM Original Soju 16.5% (350 ML)

Why It Stands Out

Chum Churum Original is a true classic, a veritable institution in the world of Korean soju. It is renowned for its signature smoothness, which comes from the use of alkaline water in its production process. A reliable choice for an authentic experience.

Highlights

• Classic Profile: A clean, balanced taste that makes it an excellent gateway to original soju.
• Versatility: Perfect for drinking neat and chilled, but also serves as a neutral and effective base for many cocktails.
• Food Pairing: It's the ideal companion for spicy Korean cuisine, such as kimchi jjigae or barbecue.

Who Is It For?

For spirit enthusiasts who want to discover the authentic taste of soju. It is also the top choice for recreating the Korean restaurant experience at home or for anyone seeking a reliable base for their cocktail creations.

OPPA Soju Peach Yogurt 12% - 20 x 360ml

Why It Stands Out

This version offers a bold yet incredibly popular pairing in Korea: peach and yoghurt. The result is a creamy, sweet, and indulgent drink. Offered in a 20-pack, this product is designed for events or for die-hard fans of this unique flavour.

Highlights

• Original Flavour: The combination of peach soju and a creamy yoghurt texture offers a one-of-a-kind taste experience.
• Bulk Format: The 20-bottle case is convenient for parties, large gatherings, or simply for stocking up.
• Smooth Profile: At 12% ABV, it's a very approachable drink that sips like a liquid treat.

Who Is It For?

This product is for those who love sweet, creamy flavours and aren't afraid to try something new. It's a perfect option for a night with friends or for anyone hosting an event who wants to offer a drink that stands out from the ordinary.

Looking for Other Flavours or Brands?

The world of Asian spirits is an endless field of exploration. If the options presented don't quite match what you're looking for, or if you're simply curious to discover other gems, our catalogue is here for you.

Discover our range of wine products

Frequently Asked Questions About Soju

What exactly is soju?

Soju is a distilled beverage originating from Korea. While rice is its traditional ingredient, today it is more commonly distilled from other starches like sweet potato, barley, or tapioca. It is a clear spirit with an alcohol content that typically ranges from 12% to 25%.

How do you drink soju?

Traditionally, it is served chilled in small shot glasses and drunk neat during a meal. The sweeter, flavoured sojus are often simply sipped. Soju is also a very popular ingredient in cocktails. One of the best-known customs in Korea is the Somaek, a mix of soju and beer.

What is the price of soju?

The price of soju is very accessible, which is a major contributor to its popularity. You can generally expect to pay a few dollars for a 360 ml bottle, whether it's an original or flavoured version. Bulk options, like a 20-bottle case, can offer even better value for money if you plan to buy soju online in larger quantities.

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly. The consumption of alcoholic beverages during pregnancy, even in small amounts, can have serious consequences for the child's health. The sale of alcohol to minors is prohibited.