Introduction

Bokbunja-ju (복분자주) is a Korean fruit wine made from bokbunja, the Korean black raspberry. It is deep purple-red, sweet and fruity, and it is one of the most popular traditional-style fruit wines in Korea – often given as a gift and poured at celebrations. The region of Gochang in North Jeolla Province is especially famous for its bokbunja. If you’ve enjoyed makgeolli or soju, bokbunja-ju is the sweeter, dessert-like member of the family. Please drink responsibly and only if you are of legal drinking age.

Bokbunja-ju at a Glance

What it is

• A sweet Korean fruit wine made from black raspberries

Main ingredients

• Korean black raspberries (bokbunja), sugar, yeast; some styles are blended with distilled spirit

Taste

• Sweet, jammy berry flavor with gentle tartness, similar to a port-style dessert wine but lighter

Main uses

• Sipped chilled, mixed with soju or sparkling water, paired with grilled meats and eel, used in sauces and desserts

What is Bokbunja-ju Made Of?

Bokbunja (Rubus coreanus) is a black raspberry native to Korea. The berries are crushed and fermented, usually with added sugar, and many commercial products are fortified or blended to stabilize them. Alcohol content is typically in the low-to-mid teens, stronger than beer but similar to grape wine – always check the label. Types:

• Classic bokbunja-ju: sweet, still fruit wine sold in slim bottles.
• Premium/aged bokbunja wine: drier and more complex, made with higher berry content.
• Sparkling bokbunja: lightly carbonated versions.
• Non-alcoholic bokbunja juice or cheong: berry juice or syrup for drinks.

What Does Bokbunja-ju Taste Like?

Expect a rich, sweet berry flavor – somewhere between raspberry jam and blackberry – with mild acidity and soft tannins. It is smooth and easy to drink, especially chilled, which is why it’s popular even with people who don’t usually enjoy strong alcohol. The sweetness also makes it a natural partner for salty, smoky grilled foods.

Popular Korean Foods That Pair With Bokbunja-ju

Grilled Eel (Jangeo-gui)

Gochang is famous for both bokbunja and grilled eel, and the two are a classic pairing. See our jangeo-gui guide.

Korean BBQ

The fruity sweetness balances rich pork belly and galbi.

Bokbunja Soju Mix

A splash mixed into soju makes a sweeter, pink drink at the table.

Desserts

Drizzled over vanilla ice cream or served with rice cakes and fruit.

Easy Bokbunja Spritz Recipe (Serves 1)

Ingredients

• 2 oz (60 ml) bokbunja-ju, chilled
• 3 oz (90 ml) sparkling water or tonic water, chilled
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• A few fresh or frozen berries and a lemon slice, to garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a wine glass or tall glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bokbunja-ju and lemon juice.
3. Top slowly with sparkling water or tonic and stir once gently.
4. Garnish with berries and a lemon slice and serve right away.

Tip: For an alcohol-free version, use bokbunja juice or a spoon of fruit syrup instead of the wine. For a stronger table-style drink, Koreans sometimes mix bokbunja-ju with soju about 1:1.

Where to Buy Bokbunja-ju

Alcohol sales and shipping rules vary by country and state, so availability online may be limited. Korean supermarkets with a liquor license and wine shops often carry it.

United States

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Canada

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Europe

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How to Store Bokbunja-ju

Store unopened bottles upright in a cool, dark place away from heat and sunlight. After opening, recap tightly, refrigerate and finish within a few weeks for the best fruit flavor – like other wines, it slowly loses freshness once exposed to air.

Bokbunja-ju FAQ

Is bokbunja-ju strong?

It is usually similar to grape wine in strength – stronger than beer but much lighter than soju’s higher-proof versions. Check the bottle for the exact ABV.

Should bokbunja-ju be served cold?

Yes, it is most often served chilled, in small glasses.

What is bokbunja in English?

Korean black raspberry, Rubus coreanus.

Can I cook with bokbunja-ju?

Yes. A splash adds fruity sweetness to meat glazes or berry sauces for desserts; simmer it so some alcohol cooks off.

Conclusion

Bokbunja-ju is Korea’s sweet, ruby-red berry wine – easy to sip chilled, lovely with grilled eel or Korean BBQ, and simple to turn into a refreshing spritz. For a lighter fruity drink, try our yogurt soju.