Gyeongju Gyochon Famhouse Brewing has won the grand award in the Korean rice wine category for its ‘Te monje 1779 Makgeolli.’
Gyeongju Gyochon Famhouse Brewing is a brewery of the Choibujatjip in Gyeongju, which has been using a unique recipe passed down through generations to brew traditional liquor, maintaining the lineage of the family’s secret liquor.
The name ‘Te monje’ is one of the plaque names of the Gyeongju Choibujatjip’s ancestral home, meaning ‘a place that harbors great dreams,’ and it was derived from the study room of the family members preparing for past examinations.
Te monje 1779 Makgeolli is made using 100% domestically grown glutinous rice, offering a clean yet rich flavor, and a refreshing and robust taste. Brewed solely from rice, water, and nuruk without any additives, it maintains a balance of sweetness, aroma, and acidity.
The manufacturing method, environment, and product quality of the drink comply with the certification standards set by the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, enabling it to receive a gold quality certification.
It has an alcohol content of 12%, providing a rich, savory flavor that is felt with appropriate sweetness. When stored in a refrigerator and served cold, it offers a crisp taste. It can be diluted with ice or mixed with cider or soda water at a 2:1 ratio over ice for a smooth makgeolli taste.
It possesses a thick yet refreshing clarity, pairing well with greasy foods such as soups, steamed meats, and pancakes.
Meanwhile, the Korea Wine & Spirits Awards is a major liquor evaluation event in South Korea, now in its 12th year. Organized by ChosunBiz since 2014, the event aims to discover and promote good domestic liquors and support the formation of a healthy drinking culture.
This year’s event saw 236 companies submit a total of 1,008 brands, making it the largest liquor evaluation in South Korea covering comprehensive alcoholic beverages. Of these, 431 brands received the grand award.