Seoul: Soju Tasting at Samhae Distillery & Korean Spirits

Summary

Inside a Seoul distillery tasting rare soju and rice wines

You’ll step into a private Seoul distillery for an intimate tasting of seven unique Korean spirits—including premium Samhae soju—guided by a passionate local master. Hear stories from Korea’s noble past, try your hand at pronouncing new names, and share laughter (and snacks) with fellow travelers as you discover flavors you never expected.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked under a low wooden beam into the Samhae distillery — honestly, I almost missed the door. The air was cool and sharp, like rice just before it’s cooked, but with this edge of something sweet and strong underneath. Our guide, Mr. Kim, waved us over with a grin and handed out tiny glasses. He told us how soju here isn’t that green bottle from convenience stores — it’s richer, more complicated. I tried to say “Samhae” properly; Li laughed at my accent (I probably deserved it). There were only ten of us, all crammed around an old table that looked like it had seen better days.

The first sip hit me — not harsh, but warm in my chest. We tasted seven different Korean alcohols, each poured by Mr. Kim himself. He explained which ones nobles used to drink during the Joseon dynasty and which recipes survived famine years. I kept glancing at the shelves stacked with old bottles and faded labels; you could smell faint yeast and something earthy in the corners. Between pours we nibbled on plain crackers — apparently to “reset” your mouth — but honestly I liked how they soaked up some of the burn.

I didn’t expect to feel so connected just sitting there listening to stories about rice shortages and family secrets passed down through generations. Someone asked about Master Taeksang Kim (the old master who’d taught Mr. Kim for a decade), and things went quiet for a second — you could tell it meant something real to him. The light outside faded while we were still laughing about our favorite spirit (mine was the 45% soju; it’s got this peppery kick). Walking out into the Seoul evening felt different after that — maybe warmer, or maybe just a little fuzzier around the edges.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Soju and Korean alcohol tasting

• Enter private distillery
• Learn stories about Korean alcohol
• Taste at least 7 Korean alcohols
• Enjoy premium soju 45% or above
• Socialize with fellow tasters

Top questions

How many types of alcohol do you taste during the tour?

You’ll taste at least seven different Korean alcohols made at the distillery.

Is this soju tasting in Seoul suitable for beginners?

Yes, anyone curious about Korean spirits can join—no experience needed.

Are food or snacks included during the tasting?

You’ll get plain crackers to cleanse your palate between tastings.

Can pregnant travelers join this soju tasting?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to alcohol content.

Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible for this tour.

Do I need to book as part of a group or can I come solo?

You can join solo or as part of a group; private bookings are available too.

How strong is the premium soju served on this tour?

The premium Samhae soju is 45% alcohol (90 proof) or higher.

What’s included

Your visit includes entry into a private Seoul distillery closed to the public, guided tastings of at least seven house-made Korean spirits ranging from 18% to 50% ABV—including premium Samhae soju—and simple crackers to refresh your palate between pours before heading back out into the city.