Hwayo 41

Hwayo 41 comes from the Hwayo line of Korean distilled spirits, and the number in the name usually refers to alcohol strength. Check the bottle label for the exact ABV before you plan around it. The store lists it under liqueurs, but the Hwayo name is generally associated with premium soju, so expect something cleaner and drier than a syrupy cordial. The product details here don't include official tasting notes, so what follows is what spirits in this style typically deliver. In the glass, expect a clear, neutral-leaning spirit with a faint grain sweetness, a light rice-like softness, and a smooth, warming finish. A spirit at this strength usually carries more weight than the 16 to 20 percent soju served with Korean meals. It drinks closer to a vodka or a light shochu in body, with less sugar than a typical liqueur. Neat is the most direct way to taste it. Pour a small measure into a small glass such as a shot glass or a stemmed cordial glass, and chill the bottle first, because cold suppresses the alcohol heat and brings out the gentle sweetness. Over a large ice cube in a rocks glass works if you want it to open up slowly. For a longer drink, pour it over ice and top with soda water and a squeeze of lemon or yuzu. It also takes well to tonic with a cucumber slice. As a cocktail base or modifier, it can stand in for vodka in a Moscow Mule, a Gimlet, or a Salty Dog, where the soft grain character stays out of the way of citrus. Mixed with fresh grapefruit or pear juice and a pinch of salt, it makes a simple, balanced highball. At the table it suits the foods soju is usually served with, such as Korean barbecue, fried chicken, spicy stews, and pickled side dishes. The cold, clean spirit cuts through fat and chili heat well.