Jinro Chamisul Fresh

Chamisul Fresh is made under the JINRO label, a name best known for soju, the clear Korean spirit that is usually distilled or diluted from rice, wheat or other starches. This listing files it under wine and sake, so check the label for the exact classification and strength. Soju of this type is typically colorless and light-bodied. Expect a clean, faintly sweet grain note with little aroma, no oak and no tannin. It tends to finish short and smooth, with only slight sweetness and a brief, mild warmth. Because the style is so neutral, it works best with food that has big flavor. Typical matches are Korean barbecue, grilled pork belly, fried chicken, spicy stews such as kimchi jjigae, and seafood pancakes. The clean profile cuts through fat and chili heat without adding flavors of its own. Many drinkers also mix it with citrus or fruit juice, or pair it with beer in a light highball-style drink. Serve it well chilled, around 4 to 8°C (40 to 46°F), straight from the refrigerator. Soju is traditionally poured into small shot-style glasses and sipped alongside a meal rather than from a large glass. A small stemless tumbler or a sake cup also works. It does not need decanting and does not improve with aging. Drink it soon, and once opened keep it sealed in the refrigerator.