Description
Hwayo XP 41 Premium Soju 500ml is an oak-aged version of Hwayo’s 41% distilled rice soju, made in Yeoju, South Korea. Hwayo takes its Hwayo 41, distilled from 100% Korean rice, and matures it in American oak barrels, giving a golden spirit that sits somewhere between traditional soju and a light whisky. It is bottled at 41% ABV.
Buy Hwayo XP 41 Premium Soju Online in NZ
The XP name stands for X.Premium, and it is Hwayo’s barrel-aged take on its rice soju, which is otherwise rested in onggi, the traditional Korean earthenware jars. The base spirit is distilled at low temperature under reduced pressure, which helps keep delicate rice aromas, before the barrel adds vanilla, spice and colour.
Soju has been distilled in Korea since the 13th century, traditionally from rice. In 1965 the government banned the use of rice for making alcohol because of food shortages, and most producers switched to diluted soju made from other starches. The ban was lifted in 1999, and since then producers such as Hwayo have revived the older distilled rice style.
Hwayo is one of the producers behind that revival, and XP shows how far the category has moved from the diluted soju many people know. Its oak character gives whisky drinkers a familiar point of reference while the rice spirit underneath stays clean and light.
Sip it neat in a small glass, add a few drops of water, or serve it over a large ice cube. It also makes an interesting highball with soda, and pairs with grilled beef, roast duck, aged cheese or desserts with caramel.
- Hwayo 41 rice soju matured in American oak
- Distilled from 100% Korean rice in Yeoju
- Bottled at 41% ABV
Expect vanilla, toasted oak and caramel on the nose with a soft rice sweetness underneath. The palate is smooth and rounded, with honey, light spice and oak, and the finish is warm and gently woody.
A good bottle for whisky fans curious about Korean spirits, and a distinctive gift for anyone who enjoys trying something new.
