The verdict is in: South Korea’s wine scene is no longer a footnote. In Seoul’s Gangnam district, over 80 DWWA 2025 award-winning wines unfolded in a tasting that blurred borders and redefined excellence. Decanter’s collaboration with Winevision, South Korea’s leading wine education hub, turned the event into a masterclass in terroir and technique. From Argentina’s bold Malbecs to Portugal’s aged Ports, the room buzzed with professionals and enthusiasts dissecting the nuances of 19 countries’ finest.
This wasn’t just a showcase—it was a seismic shift. The ground floor brimmed with sparkling and fortified gems, including five Platinum-winning Australian Chardonnays and Spanish Sherries. On the upper level, the focus shifted to reds: France’s Sauternes, Italy’s Barolos, and Chile’s Carmenères stood shoulder to shoulder, each vying for supremacy. The air was thick with the scent of ambition. Attendees didn’t just taste wine—they interrogated it, debating the merits of 97-point scores and the artistry behind 50 Best in Show winners.
What made this event extraordinary? The sheer scale of the DWWA’s influence. With 11 of last year’s Best in Show winners and 30 Platinum medals on display, it felt like a global wine summit. The data was striking: 27 Gold, 11 Silver, and six Bronze medals spanned continents, proving that quality isn’t confined to Europe. Korea’s growing appetite for premium wines—evident in the crowd’s enthusiasm—signals a new era. This tasting wasn’t just about tasting; it was about validation.
Key takeaways? First, the DWWA’s reach now extends beyond the UK, with Seoul hosting the largest walk-around tasting outside the competition’s homeland. Second, the diversity of winners—from Austria’s Rieslings to New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blancs—underlines the global nature of today’s wine scene. Third, the event’s success hinges on its ability to connect producers, judges, and consumers in a shared language of flavor and rigor.
Share your pick in the comments.
What wine from the list above would you most want to taste—and why? Share your pick in the comments.
Questions & Answers
Where is the DWWA winners tasting held?
The DWWA winners tasting takes place in Seoul, South Korea, at the heart of the country’s food and beverage industry.
How many winners are recognized at DWWA?
DWWA recognizes up to 100 winners annually, showcasing the best in global wine and spirit categories.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
