Oyster Bay wraps New Zealand food and wine event on Han River

Ahyoung FBC, a liquor distributor, said it successfully concluded a New Zealand culinary event titled "Pure Mood, Pure New Zealand" in Seoul. The event was organized by New Zealand wine brand Oyster Bay in partnership with the New Zealand Embassy in Korea and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and held Saturday at Mood Seoul. About 150 people attended.

Guests sampled four Oyster Bay wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Cuvée Brut, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The event also featured a food pairing program with leading New Zealand food brands. Menus incorporating Grove avocado oil and Comvita Manuka honey were served alongside the wines. A lucky draw and other activities rounded out the program.

Representatives from the New Zealand Embassy and NZTE attended. Caitlin Goggin, first secretary at the New Zealand Embassy in Korea, said New Zealand, with a population of about 5 million, produces enough food to feed about 40 million people worldwide. "New Zealand is earning global recognition across a range of sectors, from wine to premium health foods," she said. She added that Oyster Bay, Grove and Comvita exemplify the New Zealand brand's commitment to nature and quality.

Oyster Bay is one of the brands credited with bringing New Zealand wine to the world stage. Its first Sauvignon Blanc vintage was named Best Worldwide in London in 1991, establishing its international reputation.

Building on the event's success, Mood Seoul will run a special pairing promotion throughout October. The "Oyster Glass Pairing Set" — two glasses of Oyster Bay wine with cold shrimp capellini pasta — is priced in the 60,000 won ($44) range, while the "Oyster Bottle Pairing Set," which includes a full bottle of Oyster Bay wine with the same pairing menu, is offered in the 90,000 won range.