Zelkova Winery

Hongsi Wine

홍시와인

Hongsi Wine is a 10.5% ABV persimmon fruit wine from Jelkoba Winery in Gyeongsangbuk-do, made from Korean-grown persimmon with yeast and minimal sulfite additions. Persimmon (hongsi) is one of Korea's most evocative autumn fruits, and translating its soft, honeyed character into wine produces something genuinely distinct from berry-based bottles. The nose opens with dried persimmon and honey, followed by a subtle cinnamon-like warmth that recalls sujeonggwa (Korean cinnamon punch). On the palate, the body is light and delicate, befitting the low ABV. The sweetness is gentle and rounded — not sharp or sugary, but with the same mellow, almost caramelized quality of a perfectly ripe hongsi. The acidity is low, giving the wine a flowing, unhurried character. The finish is short to moderate, with a faint tannic note from the persimmon skin. The 375ml bottle makes it ideal for a single dessert pairing. Serve chilled at 7-10°C with mild cheese and light appetizers where the delicate sweetness adds without dominating, or as an autumn dessert companion with walnut pastries or rice cakes.