Alcohol has been consumed in Korea for thousands of years. However, Koreans began to create their own alcohol as a unique identity in the Koryo Dynasty(10th century CE). The world of Korean beverages is as exciting and diverse as its food. Korean restaurants and bars like Nuri Grills and Bars are starting to introduce more of these unique Korean drinks in Abu Dhabi to the city’s culinary landscape. Whether you are a fan of traditional rice wines or innovative cocktails with modern twists, there’s something for everyone. These seven Korean drinks offer a perfect opportunity to dive into the vibrant world of Korean beverage culture while enjoying a meal in Abu Dhabi.
1. Makgeolli: The Classic Korean Rice Wine
Makgeolli has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s made through a fermentation process using rice, water, and nuruk (a fermentation starter). The result is a drink with a slightly sweet, tangy, and earthy flavour. What makes Makgeolli unique is its milky appearance and thick, creamy texture, which is a contrast to many clear alcoholic drinks. With a relatively low alcohol content (around 6-8%), Makgeolli is light and refreshing, making it perfect for casual sipping.
Makgeolli is best enjoyed chilled and can be served on its own or infused with fruits or other ingredients for a modern twist. In Abu Dhabi, some Korean restaurants serve flavoured versions of Makgeolli, such as pomegranate or mango, which add an extra layer of sweetness to this traditional beverage.
Perfect Pairing: Makgeolli’s smooth texture and slightly tangy flavour make it a great companion to Korean savoury pancakes (jeon), fried appetisers, and grilled dishes like bulgogi. The slight carbonation in Makgeolli also helps cleanse the palate, making it an ideal drink for long, leisurely meals.
2. Chamisul Soju: Korea’s Most Popular Spirit
Soju is arguably Korea’s most famous alcoholic beverage, and Chamisul is the country’s best-selling brand. Often referred to as the “vodka of Korea,” Soju is a clear, distilled spirit with a neutral flavour, making it incredibly versatile. However, Chamisul stands out due to its clean and smooth taste, achieved through a charcoal filtration process that eliminates impurities.
Soju is often consumed neat in small shot glasses during meals, but it’s also a fantastic base for cocktails. In Abu Dhabi, you’ll find Chamisul Soju served traditionally or as a key ingredient in various creative cocktails that highlight its adaptability. Its alcohol content (16-20%) is lower than vodka, which means you can sip it without the strong burn you’d expect from stronger spirits.
Perfect Pairing: Chamisul Soju is traditionally paired with Korean BBQ. The spirit’s clean taste complements the rich, savoury flavours of grilled meat. You can also enjoy it with spicy Korean dishes, as the mildness of Soju helps balance out the heat.
3. Cheong Gam Ju: A Sweet and Herbal Rice Wine
Cheong Gam Ju is another traditional rice wine with a twist. Unlike the more common Makgeolli, Cheong Gam Ju is infused with various medicinal herbs, creating a drink that is both sweet and herbal. This drink is often favoured for its potential health benefits, as the herbs used in its fermentation are believed to aid digestion and improve overall wellness.
The addition of herbs gives Cheong Gam Ju a unique, slightly medicinal flavour, but the sweetness balances it out, making it a refreshing and easy drink. In Abu Dhabi, you might find this drink served at more traditional or upscale Korean restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Korean culture beyond the typical fare.
Perfect Pairing: Due to its sweet and herbal profile, Cheong Gam Ju pairs best with lighter, mildly flavoured dishes like Korean rice cakes, steamed vegetables, or seafood. It’s also a great option to sip on its own if you’re looking for something soothing after a heavy meal.
4. Hangeul: A Creative Mix of Cognac and Rhubarb
If you’re in the mood for something creative and modern, you need to try the Hangeul cocktail. This drink is a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours, combining cognac with sour rhubarb and a milk wash infused with Yuzu-Peach Liqueur. The result is a smooth, creamy, and fruity cocktail that plays with contrasts—rich and tangy, sour and sweet.
Hangeul is one of those drinks that challenge the palate in all the best ways. The cognac provides a solid, deep base, while the sour rhubarb and Yuzu-Peach Liqueur introduce a refreshing tartness. The milk wash adds creaminess, making it a perfect option for anyone looking for a well-balanced yet adventurous drink.
Perfect Pairing: The complex flavours of the Hangeul cocktail pair well with a variety of dishes, from light seafood appetisers to rich main courses like grilled fish or even Korean-style fried chicken. The drink’s balance of sweetness and sourness complements the savoury and spicy notes of many Korean dishes.
5. Indang Su: A Refreshing Blend of Makgeolli and Vodka
Indang Su is a modern cocktail that offers a refreshing and innovative take on traditional Makgeolli. This drink mixes Makgeolli with vodka, ginger juice, lemon juice, and ginger ale, creating a cocktail with a spicy kick and a creamy finish. The ginger adds warmth, while the lemon and ginger ale keep it light and fizzy, making Indang Su a perfect summer drink.
In Abu Dhabi, Indang Su is a popular choice for those who enjoy Makgeolli but want to experience it in a new way. The vodka gives the cocktail a little more bite, while the ginger and lemon add layers of flavour that make each sip exciting.
Perfect Pairing: Indang Su pairs beautifully with fried foods, especially Korean fried chicken, as the fizz from the ginger ale helps cut through the richness of fried dishes. It’s also great with spicy Korean stews like kimchi jjigae.
6. Sun-Su: A Unique Combination of Gin and Sour Apple Liqueur
Sun-Su is a cocktail that stands out for its bold and bright flavours. Combining gin, Manchico Blanco (a dry white wine), Limoncello (a lemon liqueur), and Sour Apple Liqueur, this drink offers a delightful mix of tartness and sweetness. The crispness of the gin is complemented by the tangy apple and zesty lemon notes, making it an invigorating drink that’s perfect for warm evenings in Abu Dhabi.
The interplay between the gin’s herbal notes and the sweetness of the apple liqueur creates a drink that is both refreshing and complex, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate sophisticated cocktails.
Perfect Pairing: Sun-Su is best enjoyed with lighter fare such as Korean sashimi (hwe) or salads with citrus-based dressings. The bright, crisp flavours of the drink complement fresh ingredients without overpowering them.
7. Seouls-Dal: A Bold Cocktail with Hwayo 53 and Bourbon
Seouls-Dal is a drink for those who prefer something strong and bold. This cocktail combines Hwayo 53, a premium soju with an alcohol content of 53%, with bourbon, sweet vermouth, amaretto, and bitters. The result is a rich, complex cocktail with nutty and slightly sweet undertones, thanks to the amaretto and vermouth. The bourbon adds depth and warmth, while the bitters give it a slight edge, making Seouls-Dal a perfect nightcap.
Hwayo 53’s robust flavour profile shines through, making it an excellent pairing for bold, umami-rich Korean dishes.
Perfect Pairing: Seouls-Dal pairs well with heavier dishes such as Korean braised short ribs (galbi jjim) or spicy grilled pork. The cocktail’s bold flavours stand up to the richness of these dishes, making it a satisfying combination.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi’s Korean culinary scene offers an exciting array of beverages that cater to every palate. From the traditional flavours of Makgeolli and Cheong Gam Ju to the modern innovations found in cocktails like Hangeul and Seouls-Dal, there’s a drink for every occasion. Whether you’re new to Korean drinks or a seasoned enthusiast, these seven beverages are sure to elevate your dining experience. Next time you’re out in Abu Dhabi, explore the flavours of Korea with one of these unique and delicious drinks!
