Difference Between Soju vs Sake

If you are a fun-seeker, you probably have come across soju and sake. They are highly sought-after alcoholic drinks from Asia that are gradually becoming household wines worldwide. In precise terms, the wines are famous in Japan and Korea respectively. Though they tend to share some similarities, we must not fail to mention that they have key disparities.

Sure, you are certainly reading this guide because you wish to learn the difference between sake and soju. One thing we will promise you is that you will get all that information and more after reading this informative piece. As usual, we will start with the definition.

Definition of Soju

Soju is a popular Korean drink that is increasingly making its way to homes and fun-spots worldwide. With rice distillate making a significant proportion of its content, it comes with a rich taste. On top of the qualities, one can easily spot its alcoholic taste, which many drinkers find extremely pleasant.

To make the drink stand out, soju has a sweet flavor. The taste is due to ingredients like potatoes and barley. With 20% alcohol content, there is no doubt that it is for people who have high-level drinking tolerance.

Interestingly enough, the alcoholic drink has maintained its content for centuries, making it unique. As its popularity increases, many people are turning to soju for unwinding and relaxing with their loved ones.

There’s little wonder why the wine sold over 3 billion bottles in 2004 in Korea. With over 7 million cases sold worldwide, it is crystal clear that the alcoholic drink is getting more popular with each passing day. Plus, the beverage is distilled and is produced better in warm climates.

Definition of Sake

Sake is a popular Japanese alcoholic drink that has stood the test of time. It will well-processed with the fermentation of rice being the primary process it undergoes. This wine is unique because it contains a high level of spirits.

However, sake contains well-milled rice, making it free from grain-like particles. Hence, some people call it rice wine. But then, it is proper to point out that it is extremely rich in starch, making it the perfect wine for those looking for starch-rich drinks.

Just like every other alcohol that undergoes fermentation, fungus and yeast play a pivotal role in its production process. Before getting into the difference between soju and sake, it is important that you know more facts about the latter.

Many people who love it say that they find its taste irresistible. It goes without saying that the wine contains some aromas. This is one of the flavors that many consumers find fulfilling. Another selling point that people usually associate with this alcoholic drink is its originality.

All this and more make this drink a must-try. While the English-speaking world refer to it as sake, the Japanese call it Nihonshu. More importantly, the alcoholic beverage has been around since 712 A.D.

Main Differences Between Soju vs Sake

Having discussed the drink features in general, let’s dissect the soju vs sake features:

Basis of Comparison	Soju	Sake
Origin	It originated from Japan in 712 AD	It originated from South Korea in the 13th century
Alcoholic content	It contains 18-20%	This has about 20-40%
Ingredients	Rice, yeast, and fungus	Rice, wheat, sweet potatoes, and barley
Production Description	Converting milled rice to starch. Later, yeast, sugar, and fungus are added to make it liquid	It is produced by adding water, rice, and wheat/barley in a drinkable mixture.
Production process	Distillation	Brewing
Nicknames	Korean Whiskey or Vodka	Japanese rice wine

Difference Between Soju and Sake: Conclusion

In conclusion, we have to point out that there is no sake vs soju discussion that does not point to their countries of origin. Once again, while the former comes from South Korea, the latter comes from Japan. In spite of that, they are quickly becoming household names worldwide. Today, one can see them in high-end bars, hotels, and homes around the world.

Interestingly, people tend to confuse one with the other because they both have rice as the main ingredient. Nevertheless, they are not. Finally, you have seen the most significant disparities between the two rice-made alcoholic drinks from Asia.