The USA Spirits Ratings recently highlighted a standout in the world of soju, a drink often underappreciated in the American market despite being the world’s most consumed spirit by volume. Among the best soju brands in America, Yong Soju has emerged as a top contender, offering a unique approach that sets it apart from the competition.

The journey of Yong Soju began with a deep respect for Korean traditions and a desire to bring authentic Korean spirits to a broader audience. The founder, James Kim, reflecting on the brand's inception, said, "We wanted to start a company to showcase Korean spirits in a light that many people may not be familiar with. Korean alcohols have traditions dating back thousands of years that through time have gotten lost, so we felt a bit of a calling to try and maintain those traditions for today's customers." This commitment to authenticity is a core part of Yong Soju’s identity and fuels its vision for the future. In the next five years, the brand aims to broaden its reach, introducing more consumers to the rich heritage of Korean spirits and expanding its market presence across the United States.

Yong Soju distinguishes itself in the soju market through its dedication to quality and tradition. Unlike many mass-produced sojus that rely on ready neutral grain spirits and artificial flavors, Yong Soju is crafted using only three ingredients: rice, nuruk (a traditional Korean fermentation starter), and water. The company’s commitment to the "grain to glass" approach means they oversee the entire production process—from sourcing rice directly from a trusted farmer to fermenting, distilling, and bottling the product in-house. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each bottle of Yong Soju maintains the authentic flavors and aromas of its ingredients, offering a taste that stands out for its purity and traditional roots.

2024 USA Spirits Ratings: Yong Soju, 90 Points, Soju Of The Year 

James Kim adds, "We double distill our soju and carbon filter it to really provide a clean, rounded finish while still maintaining the aromas and essence of the rice." This careful distillation process, combined with the exclusive use of the "hearts" of the distillation runs, contributes to the exceptional quality that has helped Yong Soju earn its place as the best soju in America by the USA Spirits Ratings.

Currently, Yong Soju is available in Georgia through Savannah Distributing, but the brand is actively seeking distribution partners to expand its presence in other states. As part of their growth strategy, they are also planning to open a tasting room in Doraville, Georgia, by Q4 2024, where customers can sample and purchase their products directly. This move is a significant step in making their soju more accessible to a broader audience and further establishing their brand in the American market.

In addition to its focus on quality and tradition, Yong Soju is committed to sustainability. The company has initiated partnerships with local farmers to repurpose the spent mash and lees from their fermentation process, using these byproducts to enhance crops or create compost. This approach not only reduces waste but also supports the local agricultural community, aligning with the brand's broader values of sustainability and community engagement.

The attention to detail at Yong Soju extends to its packaging as well. Each bottle is designed with a unique label featuring spirits from Korean mythology, such as the dokkaebi (a goblin-like spirit) on their 17% ABV version and the Korean dragon on their 40% ABV version. This thoughtful design not only differentiates their products but also introduces elements of Korean culture to consumers, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying their soju.

Image: (L-R) Queen Huh Gin and Yong Soju

Yong Soju’s blend of traditional craftsmanship, sustainability, and cultural storytelling has earned its recognition as the best soju in America, as per the USA Spirits Ratings. As the brand continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Korean spirits with a global audience.

For more details on their products and distribution, you can visit their website or reach out to their distributor, Savannah Distributing, at savdist.com.