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A mix of makgeolli and beer, commonly known as “makgeolli beer,” is a refreshing fusion drink.
Considering the variety of makgeolli and beers available on the market, the possible combinations are endless.
Makgeolli originates from Korea, while beer has its roots in European countries like Germany, Belgium, and the Czech Republic. However, with British ales, American craft beers, and countless other styles, beer has become a globally diverse beverage.
Japanese beer also holds its own on the world stage. It is widely loved by both locals and international fans.
With this in mind, we conducted a thorough experiment using makgeolli and beers readily available in Japan to find the best combinations for making delicious makgeolli beer.
With endless possible combinations and ratios, let’s start with the best way to enjoy makgeolli beer.
If you’re trying makgeolli beer for the first time, the best way to experience its full flavor is to mix it in a 1:1 ratio.
Start with this standard ratio, and once you get used to the taste, you can experiment with different proportions to find your preferred balance.
When mixed, both the makgeolli and beer flavors stand out surprisingly well.
The combination doesn’t just blend into one generic taste—each drink retains its unique characteristics.
For first-timers, it’s best to choose a makgeolli with a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the beer. A standard, unflavored makgeolli works best.
While there are flavored makgeolli options, such as black bean, peach, or banana, a plain variety brings out the classic creamy and milky notes, making it a perfect match for beer.
After testing several types of makgeolli, our top recommendation available in Japan is ”Koujigodo Nama Makgeolli.”
This fresh makgeolli has a smooth acidity, a creamy texture, and no overpowering flavors, making it incredibly easy to drink.
For our experiment, we used ”Koujigodo Nama Makgeolli.”
Now, let’s explore how different beers affect the taste of makgeolli beer.
For consistency, we kept the makgeolli the same and changed only the beer to compare the variations.
Both makgeolli and beer taste best when well-chilled.
Kirin Ichiban Shibori has a rich aroma and signature bitterness.
Initially, the mix resembles a sparkling makgeolli rather than beer, making it incredibly smooth and easy to drink.
Surprisingly, the makgeolli doesn’t feel watered down, and the beer’s bitterness subtly lingers in the aftertaste.
Sapporo Black Label is mild with a noticeable sweetness.
When mixed, the makgeolli flavor is more dominant, creating a smooth, well-balanced drink.
Asahi Super Dry is known for its crisp finish and refreshing throat feel.
When combined, the mix retains more makgeolli flavor but has a light, clean aftertaste, making it highly drinkable.
Premium Malts offers elegant bitterness and a smooth texture.
The makgeolli’s rich aroma is highlighted, while the beer’s bitterness balances the sweetness. A great all-rounder.
This ale has a bright, floral aroma with a delicate bitterness.
The makgeolli’s richness emerges mid-drink, creating a well-balanced blend.
A mild yet flavorful beer, White Ale brings out the makgeolli’s natural sweetness, with a lingering bitter note.
A refined beer with a smooth yet deep, rich flavor.
The combination enhances the sweetness of the makgeolli while allowing the beer’s depth to shine through.
Yebisu has a strong beer character with a solid bitterness.
In the mix, the beer’s flavor dominates, making this a choice for those who enjoy a robust beer presence.
Budweiser is light and crisp, enhancing the makgeolli’s sweetness.
The aftertaste is short and refreshing, making it dangerously easy to drink.
Hoegaarden has a distinct orange peel aroma and slight bitterness.
When mixed, the fruity citrus notes pair unexpectedly well with the milky makgeolli, creating a unique and aromatic blend.
Based on our tasting, we mapped the different combinations according to their sweetness, bitterness, and balance.
Here are our top recommended pairings:
| Category | 1st Choice | 2nd Choice |
|---|---|---|
| For First - Timers (Balanced Flavor) | Suntory Premium Malts | Suntory Premium Malts White Ale |
| For a Crisp, Refreshing Taste | Suntory Premium Malts Kaoru Ale | Asahi Super Dry |
| For a Strong Beer Flavor | Kirin Ichiban Shibori | Sapporo Yebisu Beer |
| For a Rich Makgeolli Experience | Budweiser | Sapporo Black Label |
With so many combinations to try, finding your perfect makgeolli beer mix is all part of the fun!
Each pairing offers something unique, so experiment and discover your personal favorite.
