Seonyang Soju Co. said on the 9th that its top-tier premium distilled soju "Sarak Gold (GOLD)" has swept global liquor competitions even before its official launch, earning recognition for its quality.
The hallmark of Sarak Gold is that it is a "cask strength" spirit bottled at its original proof without adding water. The 100% Korea-grown barley distillate was aged for a long period in American white oak casks. Despite its high 40.2% ABV, the spirit delivers deep vanilla notes, smoothness, and a long finish that convey the rich flavor of the original liquid itself.
The product name Sarak was inspired by the sight of well-ripened summer barley rustling in the wind and the quiet sound of snow settling on winter barley fields. The label depicts the scenery of barley fields across the four seasons in a woodblock print style, capturing the barley's life cycle in the order of winter, spring, summer, and fall.
Sarak Gold has already proven its world-class quality ahead of its official release, raising expectations. In Jun., at the "2025 IWSC," regarded as one of the world's top three liquor competitions, it won bronze in the spirits category. The IWSC noted, "The characteristics of oak maturation are well expressed, with a complex yet balanced flavor." In Mar., it won the grand prize in the "premium soju (31% ABV and above)" category at the "2025 Korea Wine & Spirits Awards."
A Seonyang Soju official said, "Sarak Gold is the culmination of Seonyang Soju's distillation technology, completed with time and care under our philosophy of 'making the best soju in Korea,' and it will elevate the level of the domestic premium spirits market through its globally recognized quality and the deep taste of the spirit in its original form."
Seonyang Soju will also unveil a limited-edition special package. The set includes one 500 ml bottle of Sarak Gold, a Glencairn glass favored by whisky enthusiasts, and a leather coaster, enhancing its collectible value.