Brand | Hana Makgeolli |
Region | Brooklyn, New York, United States |
Spirits Type | Sake |
Spirits Style | |
ABV | 12% |
Product details
Hwaju 12 draws its name from the Korean words hwa (flower) and ju (water), evoking both “flower water” and “fire water.” This small-batch expression is inspired by time-honored Korean flower-infused sool and crafted in Brooklyn using only organic medium-grain white rice, organic sweet rice, traditional nuruk fermentation starter, and filtered New York water. Made through a meticulous four-stage sayangju process, it remains naturally fermented, unfiltered, and gently infused with hydrangea and chrysanthemum blossoms, honoring the heritage of Korea’s botanical rice drinks while offering a modern, artisanal interpretation.
On the palate, Hwaju 12 presents a dry, earthy character lifted by delicate floral notes. Its naturally occurring lactic acidity adds brightness and balance, while a subtle effervescence carries flavors of rice, blossoms, and soft grainy undertones. The mouthfeel is lively yet smooth, with gentle creaminess from the rice sediment. The finish is clean and lingering, leaving a refreshing echo of flowers and earth. Best enjoyed chilled, after gently shaking to incorporate its natural sediment, it pairs beautifully with bossam, ginger chicken, steamed mussels, miso cod, or a bubbling hot pot—each enhancing the vibrant and floral depth of this unique creation.