Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier – Finest Makgeolli (& Soju)

Engaging Meta Description

Discover Korea’s finest makgeolli and soju with a guided tasting led by a certified sommelier. An authentic, informative experience in Seoul’s Hapjeong area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Brief Overview of the Experience

For those curious about Korean rice wines, this Rice Wine Tasting with a Sommelier offers a delightful peek into the world of makgeolli and soju. Priced at $47 per person, the 50-minute experience is held in a cozy backroom of a small specialty shop near Hapjeong station, making it very accessible whether you’re arriving by subway or taxi. The tour is led by Jay, a knowledgeable Korean liquor sommelier, and Sam, a certified brewer, who will guide you through Korea’s lesser-known, high-quality rice wines.

What we love about this experience is how it combines expert guidance with the opportunity to taste rare, top-tier bottles that you’d rarely find outside Korea. The intimate group setting—limited to 10 participants—means you get personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions. Plus, the convenient location in a mall connected directly to Hapjeong station makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

One thing to consider is that arriving on time is crucial; if you’re more than 20 minutes late, you might miss out, as the tasting is scheduled for a specific start time. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, enjoy learning about traditional drinks, or simply want a unique, behind-the-scenes look at Korea’s rice wine culture.

Key Points

• Expert-led tasting: Led by a certified Korean liquor sommelier and a professional brewer.
• Exclusive selection: Tastes include rare and high-quality makgeollis from across Korea.
• Convenient location: In a mall connected to Hapjeong station, easily accessible via subway or taxi.
• Authentic experience: Hosted in a small, private backroom of a specialty rice wine shop.
• Duration & size: About 50 minutes; small group limited to 10 participants ensures a personalized experience.
• Price & value: $47 includes at least 5 carefully curated drinks and expert guidance.

In-Depth Review of the Rice Wine Tasting Experience

Location and Accessibility

The tasting takes place in a hidden backroom of a small rice wine shop, located within a mall connected to Hapjeong station. The location is incredibly convenient—just a 1-2 minute walk from the station’s Exit 9 or 10—and is easily reached via subway, taxi, or even on foot if you’re exploring the neighborhood. The meeting point is precisely in front of a clothing store called “8 Seconds”, which is important to note because searching “8 Seconds” on a map may lead you astray—use the provided links for accurate directions.

If you’re taking the subway, entering the mall through the B1 floor between Exit 9 and 10 makes for a quick access point. Taxi travelers will find it just as straightforward, with a short walk from the station’s exit. For walkers, following the same route as taxis ensures you won’t miss the spot.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guides and Their Knowledge

Jay, the host, and Sam, the brewer, bring a genuine depth of knowledge to the experience. Reviewers consistently praise Sam’s expertise and engaging presentation style—calling it “nothing short of a masterclass.” They’re both passionate about Korean alcohol and eager to share their insights, making the tasting lively and educational rather than just a series of sips.

One reviewer, Laure, summed it up well: “GREAT tour!! Sam was incredibly knowledgeable and fun.” It’s clear their enthusiasm and familiarity with the craft elevate the experience from just drinking to genuinely learning about the nuances of different makgeollis and sojus.

What’s on Offer

The core of the tour is a guided tasting of at least five carefully selected Korean alcohols. These include some of the finest and rarest makgeolli bottles across Korea, many from small local producers who rarely reach a broader audience. This means you’re not just sampling everyday brands; you’re sipping the hidden gems that showcase the diversity and depth of Korea’s rice wines.

The tasting is designed to explore different categories within makgeolli—perhaps some unfiltered and cloudy, others more refined and smooth. Plus, if you’re interested in soju, there’s an optional small distillery tour available, where you’ll learn about a family-run operation with 400 years of history (you can search for “SOJU TASTING” for more details).

The Experience Itself

As you settle into the small, cozy backroom, the host introduces each sample with a story or a detail about its origin, brewing process, or flavor profile. We loved the way the guides contextualized the drinks—highlighting the craftsmanship and regional differences.

Reviews confirm the high quality: “Sam was exceptional at walking us through the process of creating Makgeolli,” said Michael. The presentation of flavors over the course of the tasting was described as “nothing short of a masterclass,” making it clear that this is about more than just drinking; it’s about understanding.

Tasting Highlights

You’ll sample a selection of rare makgeollis that you won’t find in typical stores. The drinks are chosen for their flavor complexity and authenticity. Expect a variety of textures—some smooth and lightly fizzy, others cloudy and full-bodied—each representing a different regional or artisanal style.

Guests have raved about the quality—”you wouldn’t normally taste on your trip to Seoul”—and the hosts’ knack for selecting standout bottles. The tasting not only introduces you to the different profiles but also educates on how to appreciate the subtle differences between each.

The Value

While $47 might seem modest, it’s essential to recognize that this fee includes at least five curated drinks along with professional guidance. Compared to buying bottles from specialty shops or going on larger, less focused tours, this is a focused, quality-driven experience.

Coupled with the opportunity to sample rare and high-quality alcohols and learn from experts, it’s a compelling value—especially for travelers keen to deepen their understanding of Korea’s drinking culture beyond the typical Soju shot.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seeking drink enthusiasts, culinary explorers, or those simply curious about Korea’s lesser-known beverages. If you appreciate authentic local flavors and enjoy knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this tour both educational and enjoyable.

It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and want to avoid cookie-cutter tours. However, be aware that punctuality is important; arriving late could mean missing out on this curated tasting.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone interested in Korean culture and want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, this tasting offers a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at Korea’s rice wine craftsmanship. It’s a rare chance to taste rare bottles curated by experts, in the company of small groups that foster conversation and learning.

For food and drink lovers who want to deepen their appreciation of traditional Korean alcohol, this tour provides both education and memorable tasting moments. Its location makes it accessible, and the guides’ expertise ensures you’ll come away with a new understanding—and perhaps even a new favorite drink.

If your goal is to see Korea through its hidden flavors and craftsmanship, this is an experience worth considering. It’s especially valuable if you’re traveling in Seoul, want a break from sightseeing, and are eager to enjoy some authentic local drinks with a knowledgeable host.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers or under 18s?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 because it involves tasting alcoholic beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting lasts approximately 50 minutes, with some flexibility depending on the group.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are required, and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

Can I pay on the day of the experience?
It’s best to reserve in advance since the tour is limited to small groups. Payment is usually made at the time of booking.

Where exactly do I meet the guides?
Meet in front of the clothing store named “8 Seconds” within the mall, just a few minutes’ walk from Hapjeong station. Use the provided map links for accuracy.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card—copies are accepted—for check-in.

Is the location easy to reach?
Yes, it’s very accessible via Hapjeong station, with easy walking from Exit 9 or 10.

What if I’m running late?
Arrive at least 5 minutes early. If you’re more than 20 minutes late, you might not be able to join the tasting.

Can I join if I’m not familiar with Korean alcohol?
Absolutely. The guides are excellent at explaining the drinks, making this a good learning opportunity regardless of your familiarity.

This rice wine tasting experience offers a well-balanced mix of authenticity, expert guidance, and unique sampling. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious traveler, it’s a chance to gain a deeper appreciation for Korea’s flavorful rice wines—an experience that’s as educational as it is enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: