Your Quick Guide to Two of Asia’s Most Popular Drinks
Whether you're browsing our collection of Japanese sake and Korean soju, or ordering for the first time, you might be wondering: what exactly is the difference between sake and soju?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Sake?
Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine brewed by fermenting polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold. Despite being called “rice wine,” the brewing process is more similar to beer, where starch is converted into sugars and then fermented into alcohol.
Key facts about sake:
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Alcohol content: ~13%–15%
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Typically served warm, chilled, or at room temperature
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Tastes light, smooth, slightly sweet or umami
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Comes in types like Junmai, Ginjo, Daiginjo, and Honjozo
Best for: Sipping with sushi, grilled meats, or as a refined party drink
What Is Soju?
Soju is a Korean distilled liquor, usually made from rice, sweet potatoes, or tapioca. It’s clearer and stronger than sake, but often comes in sweet, fruity flavors perfect for casual drinking.
Key facts about soju:
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Alcohol content: ~16%–25%
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Typically served cold or over ice
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Tastes clean, neutral, or fruity (flavored variants)
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Common brands include Jinro, Chum Churum, and Good Day
Best for: Drinking with Korean BBQ, shots with friends, or mixed into cocktails
Sake vs Soju – Key Differences
| Feature | Sake | Soju |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Brewed (like beer) | Distilled (like vodka) |
| Origin | Japan | Korea |
| Alcohol | 13%–15% | 16%–25% |
| Flavor | Subtle, smooth, umami-rich | Neutral or fruity |
| How it’s served | Warm, chilled, or room temperature | Cold or in shots |
| Food pairing | Sushi, seafood, grilled dishes | Korean BBQ, spicy food |
Which One Should You Try?
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Try sake if you prefer smoother, wine-like drinks with umami notes.
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Go for soju if you enjoy strong spirits, fruity flavors, or drinking games.
For first-timers, try a Ginjo sake served cold or a grape or peach soju – both easy, crowd-pleasing options.
Where to Buy Sake and Soju Online in the Philippines
At Wines n Drinks, we offer a curated range of authentic sake and flavored soju delivered nationwide. Whether you're in Manila, BGC, Taguig, or anywhere in the Philippines, we make it easy to enjoy Asia’s favorite liquors at home.