Damso Watermelon Soju

Damso Watermelon Soju is a flavored soju made by Esplanda in Massachusetts, which makes it an American-produced take on a style that originated in Korea. The watermelon flavoring defines it. Flavored sojus like this usually taste of ripe melon and a little candied fruit, with a sweetness that sits closer to a light liqueur than to a dry spirit. Expect a soft, easy body with no tannin and no oak, because soju is a clear, unaged drink. Acidity is typically low, so the finish tends to be short, clean and gently sweet, with a faint melon rind note at the end. Chill it hard. Soju in this style is best served very cold, roughly 35 to 45°F, and straight from the refrigerator or freezer door is a good starting point. Cold temperature keeps the sweetness in check and lets the watermelon read as refreshing, not syrupy. It needs no decanting, since there is nothing in it to open up. The traditional way to drink soju is neat from a small shot glass, and that suits a flavored bottle well. For something longer, pour it over ice in a short tumbler or a stemless wine glass. It also works as a base for simple mixed drinks, with soda water, lemon-lime soda or a splash of lime juice to cut the sweetness. For food, look to dishes that are salty, spicy or fried. Korean fried chicken, grilled pork belly with ssamjang, spicy tteokbokki and kimchi pancakes all give the sweet melon flavor something to push against. Salted watermelon, feta or a plate of cured meats make good lighter pairings. Bright, fruit-driven sweetness like this also takes the edge off heat, so it is a useful match for chili-heavy dishes. This is a drink-now bottle. Flavored soju has no aging potential, and its fresh fruit character is at its best in the months after bottling, so there is no reason to cellar it. Keep it in the fridge or freezer, and once opened, reseal it tightly and finish it within a few weeks to keep the flavor lively.