Soju is an emblematic Korean white alcohol made from wheat, barley or, as in this case, rice. It is available in many forms, ranging from the most basic to the most exclusive of sojus. The Ilpoomjinro in question most certainly belongs to the latter category, as its producers have expressly set out to place it high among the ranks of the world’s best premium spirits. To do so, the production quantity is limited to 9,000 bottles a year, each containing 375 ml of Ilpoomijnro soju. The exclusive beverage is aged for no less than 19 years in oak casks that are moved on a regular basis so as to further enhance the aging process. With a design reminiscent of a luxurious perfume bottle, the soju is contained in an elegant black bottle encased in an attractive box composed of a tasteful cardboard material.

The soju displays a pale yellow tint infused with golden reflections, the whole perfected by a splendid limpidity. The nose opens with distinctive aromas redolent of its aging time in oak casks, and reveals notes of vanilla tempered by slight empryeumatic scents. The vanilla aromas seamlessly transition onto the palate, developing roasted notes that are evocative of chocolate flavours, according to some of the tasters. The overall flavour profile offers an impressive length in the mouth and is complemented by lingering notes that exhibit an almost floral character. All of these qualities led the Monde Selection panellists to the unanimous decision of dignifying this product with a Grand Gold medal as well as a «coup de coeur.»

“Each year, one product per category is awarded the Prize of the Jury as a token of excellence in know-how and quality. In order to qualify, the product must be unanimously selected as a “coup de cœur” by the jury members. The winner of the Prize of the Jury is then selected from a group of just 5 nominees, which makes this award an even greater honour for the recipient.”