A New Beginning for Korean Wine: Exploring Peach Wine

The origins of alcoholic beverages are ancient, dating back to the time when humans lived in tribal societies. Having evolved alongside humanity through the ages, alcohol is now regarded less as a luxury than as a necessity. Wine, which originated in the West, includes red, white and sparkling varieties and is a fruit-based alcoholic beverage made primarily from grapes. Its flavor and aroma vary greatly depending on the grape variety, soil quality and production process.

Wine Made from Various Grapes

As with all food products, different ingredients can produce entirely different results even when the same method is used. Wine in particular has such a long history that producers continue to adhere to traditional production methods. Because winemaking follows the laws of nature rather than relying on advanced technology, the raw ingredients used have the greatest influence. Wines are therefore also categorized according to grape variety. White wine, in particular, has a stronger fruit aroma than red wine, and the deeply infused aroma developed during aging determines the wine’s quality.

Peach Wine

As times have changed, wine can no longer be considered the exclusive preserve of the West. Driven by the surge in global trade, it has spread around the world and is enjoyed by people of many ethnicities and regions. Countries also create distinctive regional wines that reflect their own cultural sensibilities. Peach wine recently produced in Korea can be described as a uniquely Korean wine with the character of a white wine. Pairing a dish with food that complements it is known as a “mariage,” and because peach wine has qualities similar to white wine, it pairs well with dishes such as fish, salads and chicken.

[FamTimes=Reporter Kim Seung-hyun]