Uncorked: Donghyuk Shin

Donghyuk Shin is head sommelier at Jungsik wine bar in Seoul. A CMS certified sommelier, he won Best Sommelier of Korea in 2014 and has been a Decanter Asia Wine Awards judge since last year. Donghyuk grew up in Seoul where he worked at the Conrad, before joining Michelin-starred restaurant, La Bernardine in New York and Aqua in San Francisco. He is currently studying to become a Master Sommelier.  

What vintage are you?

I’m 1983 which unfortunately is not a great vintage, aside from Château Margaux and Sauternes. It would be better if I was a 1990!

What sparked your love of wine?

It was not an expensive wine – I was young and hanging out with my friends. I remember it was a Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon – very full-bodied and very powerful. While working as a waiter in one of my first jobs after studying Hotel Management, I did get to try some Vosne-Romanée which was unforgettable.

What would you be as a wine?

Everything all in balance – nothing too tannic, too powerful or too aromatic.

Where are you happiest?

I can be happy everywhere. If I’m drinking wine and talking about it and sharing my ideas with some friends then I am happy.

What is your greatest vice?

Being a workaholic! I’m mostly too busy, I’m studying for my Master Sommelier exams which are coming up in April so I feel like I’m not in balance at the moment.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Be a good person, be nice to others and above all, be humble.

What’s your most overused word?

I feel like all I say at the moment is “wine” or “I’m studying”!

Your wine cellar is underwater – which bottle would you save?

I have a few 1983 Château Palmer so I would save that as it’s my vintage. The other is my 1998 Château Tertre Roteboeuf, I’ve visited the estate twice. The wine was so good, it almost made me cry.

Best and worst thing about the wine business?

Speaking to my guests and recommending a wine they love. Worst thing: The hangovers!

What’s on your wine bucket list?

Too many to mention.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

My family and friends and all my somm friends. We are all in this together and have become very close.

What wine would you like served at your funeral? 

Champagne, it should be a celebration.