LCBO Food & Drink Spring 2025

INSIDE SCOOP

LOW & NO Soju 101

Soju, Korea’s national spirit, is gaining traction in North America as younger generations seek lower-alcohol options. Here’s what beginners need to know about this beloved beverage.

PLAIN

FLAVOURED

What are the two main types of soju? Traditional soju is distilled from rice and mostly ranges between about 24% and 40% alcohol by volume (ABV)—Won Soju Spirit (LCBO 38136, 375 mL, $22.80) is a lovely example. The bulk of soju, however, is of the diluted variety, distilled from grains or tubers, lightly sweet ened and watered down to anywhere from 12% to 24% ABV. Jinro Chamisul Fresh (LCBO 13612, 360 mL, $10.90) is in this group and could be used as a lower-ABV substitute for vodka. What is flavoured soju? Flavoured soju is in the diluted soju family and it tends to be the lowest in alcohol. Fruit is the most common flavour introduced, such as grape in the popular Chum Churum Grape (LCBO 17229, 360 mL, $10.90). Newer bottles tend to explore trending fla vours, such as Good Day Hibiscus Soju (LCBO 42907, 360 mL, $10.90).

What does it taste like? Plain soju is like a cross between sake and vodka with subtle fruity and floral notes. Flavoured soju tastes mostly of its intended flavour.

How do you drink it? Soju is traditionally served chilled, neat, in shot glasses. In Korea, it’s almost always con sumed with food. Traditional soju is outstanding with raw fish dishes, whereas the sweetened versions pair nicely with spicy fare.

How can you mix with it? Plain soju works well in highballs with fruit sodas; flavoured soju has an affinity for iced green tea. A popular cocktail in Korea is a somaek , a boilermaker of sorts mixed with roughly 3 parts soju to 7 parts beer.

LOCAL Proudly Indigenous National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) celebrates the history and heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada. It’s an opportunity to highlight local Indigenous-owned businesses. —MICHELE SPONAGLE

ZIIBAAKDAKAAN MAPLE Sourced from the trees of Cape Croker Park, the traditional maple syrup products produced here provide employment opportunities for the Neyaashi inigmiing community. ziibamaple.ca

TEA HORSE Thunder Bay’s Denise Atkinson and Marc H.

FN CLEAN WATER This Stittsville company donates a portion of sales from its canned natural spring water to Water First, which helps resolve local water issues for First Nations. fncleanwater.ca

Bohémier offer tea blends infused with roasted, locally harvested wild rice, which adds complex nutty notes. teahorse.ca

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———————— SPRING 2025