Cheongsoo (Chungsoo)
Cheongsoo (often spelled Chungsoo) was originally bred as a table grape, but its intense aromatics and high sugar potential quickly caught the attention of winemakers—today, it’s one of Korea’s most promising white wine grapes.
Varietal Origin: Cheongsoo is a modern Korean hybrid, developed in South Korea by crossing Seibel 9110 with Himrod (a seedless table grape). It was created to handle Korea’s humid summers and monsoon conditions, with good disease resistance and reliable ripening.
Taste Profile: Cheongsoo produces aromatic, fruit-forward wines with notes of green apple, pear, grape, citrus, and tropical fruits. It often shows floral tones and a slightly muscat-like fragrance, with moderate acidity and a soft, approachable texture. Styles can range from dry to off-dry, sometimes with a gentle sweetness.
Regional Styles: South Korea (Gyeonggi, Chungcheong, Gyeongsang): Commonly made into light, aromatic white wines, often slightly off-dry to highlight its fruitiness. Increasingly used in sparkling wines and dessert styles due to its high sugar levels.
Emerging Craft Wineries: Small producers are experimenting with natural, skin-contact, and sparkling expressions, showcasing its versatility.
Cheongsoo represents the new wave of Asian winemaking—fresh, aromatic, and uniquely adapted to its local climate
