News

Soju Ingredients and Sweeteners: What the Label Can Tell You

Soju recipes vary by product and market. Learn how to read ingredient claims, distinguish zero sugar from unsweetened, and choose a bottle for cocktails.

What Is Soju? Ingredients, ABV, Styles and How to Serve It

A guide to soju ingredients, production styles, product-specific alcohol strengths, comparisons with other spirits, and ways to serve it.

Beyond the Green Bottle: Soju and Makgeolli at Minhwa Spirits

Meet Minhwa Spirits, the Doraville brewery and distillery making soju and makgeolli, and explore its verified product and hospitality awards.

Why We Named It "Minhwa" (And Yes, It’s About That Derpy Tiger)

Why is our soju named Minhwa? Discover the link between traditional Korean folk art, the "Derpy" tiger from the KPop Demon Hunters movie, and our humble family recipe.

Korean Drinking Games and Rituals: Legendary Nights with Soju & Makgeolli

Step aside, solo sipping, Korean soju and makgeolli are best enjoyed with friends, a few laughs, and maybe some clever games or quirky rituals that make every round memorable!

Why Koreans Crave Jeon and Makgeolli When It Rains

Jeon and makgeolli are deeply rooted Korean rainy-day comfort foods, tied to nostalgia, family traditions, and the soothing sound of sizzling batter that mirrors falling rain. This longtime cultural pairing reflects Korea’s agrarian history, communal cooking, and the comforting emotions rain inspires. It remains one of the most iconic and beloved Korean food rituals.

The world’s best soju is being made in Doraville, Georgia, shaped by Southern rice and the immigrant traditions of Buford Highway

Minhwa Spirits recently earned Best in Class for Soju at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is the highest honor in the most respected spirits competition in the United States. For us, the win is about more than a medal. It represents the story of two Asian American founders who grew up in Doraville and learned the value of culture, food, and community along Buford Highway.

Queen Huh: The Queen Who Crossed the Sea

Queen Huh Gin by Minhwa Spirits is inspired by the legend of Heo Hwang-ok, the Indian princess who sailed to ancient Korea and became Queen Huh of Gaya. Her story of courage and connection lives on in this handcrafted gin distilled in Doraville, Georgia. Infused with Korean craftsmanship and Indian-inspired chai botanicals from The Chai Box, Queen Huh Gin captures the spirit of cultural exchange with notes of juniper, rosemary, fennel, citrus, and warm spice. A modern tribute to an ancient queen who bridged two worlds.

How to Host the Perfect Soju + Southern BBQ Pairing

Bring Korean tradition and Southern smoke together with a Soju + Southern BBQ pairing. Choose the right Minhwa soju (bold Yong for rich meats, smooth Dokkaebi for lighter dishes), balance flavors with fusion sides like kimchi mac & cheese or cornbread with doenjang butter, and offer simple soju cocktails for variety. Serve chilled, pour for others, and set a warm, cross-cultural vibe. Geonbae, y’all!