Mosel Wine, Crisp Acidity and Low Alcohol... How About a Glass with New Year's Dishes?
The article discusses the rising preference for Mosel wine in South Korea as an alternative to traditional spirits during the New Year celebrations, emphasizing its compatibility with food.
In South Korea, there has been a noticeable trend of opting for wine over traditional alcoholic beverages during the New Year's celebrations, especially as the number of wine enthusiasts has surged post-COVID-19. Lee In-soon, director of 'Lee In-soon Wine Lab', advocates for German Mosel wine due to its refreshing and delicate flavor profile, tailored to complement festive dishes. He is a seasoned expert, having contributed to wine education in Korea for over 26 years, and recently explored the Mosel region to enhance his understanding of the wine's qualities.
The Mosel wine is made primarily from the Riesling grape variety in the Mosel region of Germany, known for its invigorating and precise taste, along with a strong acidity that pairs well with various cuisines. The vineyards are predominantly located along the Mosel River, characterized by slate soil, which is believed to impart a unique quality to the Riesling wines produced there. Notably, Germany accounts for about 60% of worldwide Riesling wine production, with Traben-Trarbach being a central hub for Mosel wines.
Historically, the Mosel wine enjoyed a golden era from the 19th century, comparable in price to prestigious French wines. However, its popularity waned due to the impacts of two world wars, disease, and the advent of mass production. Today, a new wave of innovative young vintners is reviving interest in Mosel wine, aligning with the global trend favoring white wines. The efforts to educate people about the advantages of Mosel wine continue, including recent initiatives like talk concerts that celebrate its rich heritage and quality, suggesting a promising future for this unique German wine.