Makgeolli

Being in Asia and having access to all these Asian TV channels opened up a whole world I knew little about. In Bangkok, I have had the chance to taste the local rum, Sangsom, which was not the finest spirit I have ever tasted, let's say. Well, I'm not a big fan of rum. Period.

But I saw a service on Korean TV about "makgeolli", a Korean wheat-and-rice "wine". They said its popularity was spreading throughout Asia, Europe and that the sales in the US had increased by 500% since 2009. I was intrigued. This is something I could try. Surely I'll be able to find some here?

Photo cred: yujinishuge.wordpress.com

It is traditionally served in a ceramic bowl and has a milky texture. But the big brands have focused their efforts in marketing the product and make it attractive to Western customers, with bottles resembling more liquor bottles, and less plastic milk pints.

Photo cred: lovebaeyongjoon.com

Would you try it?