Jinro Fresh

Jinro Fresh is listed here under both wine and soju, and the soju label is the one that tells you how to use it. Soju is a clear Korean-style spirit, and Jinro is a long-established soju producer. Bottles in this style are usually light and clean, with little aroma beyond faint grain or starch and a touch of sweetness. They have no tannin, no oak and very little acidity. Expect a smooth, neutral body with a short, mildly sweet finish rather than the layered fruit and structure of grape wine. The listing gives the United States and Massachusetts as origin, and no ABV, vintage or flavor notes are supplied. Check the label for the exact strength. Soju is traditionally served very cold, and that suits a neutral style like this one. Chill the bottle in the refrigerator or freezer until it is close to icy, which smooths any alcohol edge and brings out the faint sweetness. It needs no decanting. Pour it into small shot-style glasses and sip it over a meal, the usual way to drink soju. It can also be poured over ice or used as a clean base for fruit-forward mixed drinks. Its mild profile makes it a food drink. It is traditionally matched with salty, fatty, spicy or grilled dishes: Korean barbecue, fried chicken, pork belly, kimchi stews, seafood pancakes, and anything with chili heat. The cold, light spirit resets the palate between bites without competing with strong seasoning. This is a drink-now bottle. Soju does not improve with cellaring, so there is no reason to hold it. Keep it in a cool place, refrigerate it before serving, and finish an opened bottle within a reasonable time for the best freshness.