What is Kooksoondang Makgeolli?
Kooksoondang Makgeolli is one of the most well-known and widely loved traditional Korean rice wines. Brewed by Kooksoondang Brewery, a leading name in Korean alcoholic beverages, it’s a milky, lightly sparkling drink made from fermented rice.
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Type: Makgeolli (Korean rice wine)
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Flavor: Mildly sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy with a subtle fizz
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Alcohol Content: Typically around 6%
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Texture: Smooth, unfiltered, with a pleasantly grainy mouthfeel
Benefits
- Naturally Fermented
Made using nuruk (a traditional fermentation starter), it contains beneficial lactic acid bacteria and live cultures, which may support gut health. - Low Alcohol & Refreshing
Its moderate alcohol content and smooth taste make it ideal for casual sipping. - Rich in Nutrients
Contains amino acids, dietary fiber, and B vitamins from rice fermentation. - Cultural Experience
Drinking makgeolli offers a taste of Korean tradition—it’s often shared in a communal bowl, promoting togetherness.
Fun Facts
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Old Meets New: Though it dates back over 1,000 years, Kooksoondang has modernized makgeolli to appeal to younger generations and global markets.
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Popular Pairing: Traditionally enjoyed with pajeon (Korean savory pancakes) on rainy days—there’s even a Korean saying: “Rainy days call for pajeon and makgeolli.”
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Carbonation Surprise: It’s slightly fizzy due to natural fermentation—shake gently before drinking (but be careful, it can overflow!).
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Global Reach: Kooksoondang Makgeolli is now exported to many countries and found in Korean restaurants and supermarkets worldwide.
