Busan’s ocean, festivals, and even a ten-year love story have been captured in a single bottle. That bottle is GAHSS’NA, RM Wineries’ sparkling rosé, which merges the bold energy of Busan with premium grapes from Washington State. Born out of one man’s devotion to the woman he loved, the wine carries both a personal story and a cultural identity.
But beyond the romance, RM Wineries Korea is pioneering a new business model. By combining U.S. local production with Korean-style branding, the company has introduced an ODM/OEM system designed to lower the barriers of entry into the global wine market. This means aspiring entrepreneurs—whether designers, chefs, or newcomers—can create their own wine labels without heavy upfront investment.
A Korean Brand Made in America
Unlike traditional importers, RM Wineries harvests premium grapes in Washington and produces the wine locally. What makes it different is the infusion of Korean storytelling and design—from Busan’s official pattern on the label to Hangul typography and narratives inspired by Korean culture. The result is a product that feels fresh and unique to U.S. consumers while pairing naturally with Korean cuisine, a fact that appeals to restaurant buyers.
Redefining ODM/OEM in Wine
RM Wineries’ hybrid system works in three steps:
• Partners in Korea and abroad plan the brand concept and story
• Recipes, design, and production are co-developed with Washington winemakers (ODM)
• Finished wines are bottled and distributed under the partner’s name worldwide (OEM)
The biggest advantage? Low capital risk. With minimum orders as small as a single pallet, even small teams can test a brand idea, with royalties based on sales volume.
Building Talent Through Education
RM Wineries recently launched a collaboration with Tongmyong University in Busan. Through the “K-Global Brand Makers” program, students—including international exchange students—form teams to design wine brands from scratch. The project gives them real-world experience in branding, marketing, and sales, turning ideas into portfolios that matter for future careers.
“Too often students ask companies, ‘What skills do you want from us?’” says Chairman Michael O’dlee. “Instead, they should define problems, take action, and build their own stories. That’s the true competitive edge.”
Advice for Korean F&B CEOs Eyeing the U.S. Market
Breaking into the American market is full of opportunity—but also heavy with regulation. From alcohol distribution licenses to state-specific tax codes and FDA label reviews, the challenges are complex. RM Wineries’ solution was producing wine within the U.S., which simplified certification, lowered logistics costs, and boosted competitiveness.
Trust, however, is built face-to-face. “We don’t just sign MOUs for photos,” O’dlee explains. “We go in with draft contracts already shared, so when we shake hands, it’s real. That’s how American buyers realize Korea has serious partners.”
For lasting partnerships, O’dlee points to three essentials:
Quality, Story, Trust. Without all three, there’s no signature on the contract.
A Final Word
At the heart of it all, O’dlee believes business is about people and happiness. What started as his mother’s hobby has now become a global wine brand. His message to future challengers: “With sincerity and a story, anyone can take on the wine industry. Don’t be afraid—embrace your identity as a Korean brand and push forward.”
By Intern Reporter Lee Arim
Original Article : https://thefrontier.co.kr/20250519rmwineries/?ckattempt=2
