The tunnel was carved through rock to support the construction of the Muju Pumped Storage Power Plant.
Meoru, or wild grape, is an indigenous mountain fruit known for its high acidity and deep color, traditionally used in Korean folk medicine.
The cave temperature remains stable throughout all seasons without requiring artificial cooling.
The site hosts a 'Wine Foot Bath' area using diluted local wine for therapeutic purposes.
The facility serves as a primary marketing outlet for Muju-based local wineries that utilize the cave's natural climate for aging.
The interior is lit with LED installations designed to highlight the tunnel's natural rock walls.
The Muju Meoru Wine Cave is a former tunnel originally constructed for the Muju Pumped Storage Power Plant, now repurposed into a temperature-controlled wine maturation facility. The site specializes in Meoru wine, produced from wild crimson glory vine (Meoru) native to the Muju region. The tunnel maintains a consistent interior temperature year-round, typically between 13 and 17 degrees Celsius. Visitors walk through a multi-zone layout featuring wine history displays, tasting areas, and photo zones. The facility showcases the historical progression of local viticulture and the unique aging process of Meoru berries. It is located at the base of Mt. Jeoksang, integrating industrial infrastructure into a tourism destination.
The illuminated tunnel entrance or the barrel-stacked displays in the central gallery.
Bring a light jacket, as the ambient cave temperature is cool even during summer months.
Sample the various levels of dryness and sweetness offered, as Meoru wine can be significantly more tart than standard grape wines.
Allow time for the foot bath experience, which is often located near the exit area.
Do not attempt to touch the exposed rock or the wine barrels stored in the secured alcoves.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet volume within the tunnel to respect the aging wine barrels and other visitors.
