Chef Ahn Sung-jae Apologizes: What Went Wrong with the 2000 vs 2005 Vintage Wine Incident?

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Chef Ahn Seong-jae has publicly apologized over a wine-switching controversy at his restaurant.

On May 6, Ahn posted on Instagram, saying, “I sincerely apologize for the inadequate service at my restaurant, Mosu, and for the disappointment it caused.”

Ahn acknowledged the mistake in the incident that took place on April 18, explaining that the sommelier “served a 2005 vintage instead of the 2000 vintage and identified it as 2005.”

Ahn said the sommelier realized the error but, when customers asked for a photo, mistakenly decided to show the 2000-vintage bottle the guests expected rather than the 2005 bottle that had actually been poured.

By the time the wine issue was being addressed, the hanwoo (Korean beef) course had already been served. During that period, the sommelier reacted inappropriately—saying the 2000 vintage had been ordered by the bottle and was kept on the first floor—instead of offering a genuine apology. Even while bringing out the 2000 vintage, the sommelier reportedly said, “My mistake means you can compare the 2000 and 2005 vintages,” without apologizing.

Because the general manager had only received a partial report, they instructed staff to offer the guests a complimentary dessert wine and considered the matter closed. Ahn only learned the full details three days later, on April 21.

After outlining the sequence of events, Ahn stressed, “This is not an excuse but an effort to correct distortions and misunderstandings,” and announced that the sommelier has been removed from duties handling customers’ wines.

He added, “As the owner-chef, I will closely manage operations to prevent a recurrence,” and pledged to remain humble and work harder. “I apologize again for causing disappointment,” he said.

Mosu is a fine-dining restaurant led by owner-chef Ahn Seong-jae and holds two Michelin stars.

On April 18, a guest ordered Château Léoville Barton 2000 as a pairing wine, but the sommelier served a 2005 vintage that is roughly 100,000 KRW (approximately $75) cheaper—sparking the controversy. Critics say the restaurant made matters worse by mishandling its initial response and failing to offer a sincere apology.

Mosu later issued an official apology, but many felt it lacked authenticity, and the controversy is still ongoing.