Long Dai 2018

Winery Background and History

Domaine de Long Dai, situated in the Qiu Shan Valley of China’s Shandong Province, is the pioneering Chinese estate of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). Established in 2008, the project aimed to craft a grand vin that reflects both Lafite’s winemaking heritage and the unique terroir of Shandong. After a decade of meticulous vineyard development and study, the inaugural vintage was released in 2017. The estate spans 34 hectares, cultivated across 420 terraces, embodying a harmonious blend of nature and human craftsmanship.

Producer and Winemaker

Long Dai 2018 is produced by the esteemed team at Domaine de Long Dai, under the guidance of Technical Manager Peng Zhang. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes precision and respect for the land, with grapes hand-harvested and vinified in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The team employs traditional Bordeaux techniques, adapted to the local environment, ensuring each vintage expresses the distinct character of the Qiu Shan Valley.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards are located near Penglai in Shandong Province, benefiting from a temperate climate influenced by the nearby Yellow Sea. The granitic soils and terraced landscapes provide excellent drainage and sun exposure. Unlike other Chinese wine regions, the milder winters in Shandong eliminate the need for vine burial, allowing for more consistent vine development. The 2018 vintage experienced near-perfect conditions, contributing to the wine’s balance and complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes were hand-harvested and sorted before fermentation in small stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise control over each plot’s expression. Following fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, a combination of new and seasoned, to enhance structure and integrate flavors. This meticulous process ensures the wine’s elegance and aging potential.

Tasting Notes

Long Dai 2018 presents a deep garnet hue. The nose is initially imbued with black fruits like blueberry, transitioning to spicy notes of nutmeg and liquorice, and upon aeration, reveals floral scents of hawthorn and violet. The palate is concentrated, dominated by black fruit flavors, followed by roasted and cocoa notes. It is finely structured with rich and elegant tannins, supporting a lengthy and balanced finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs excellently with rich dishes such as roast lamb, duck breast, and mushroom risotto. Its robust structure and complex flavors complement grilled meats and hearty stews, while its elegance allows it to shine alongside fine cheeses and gourmet cuisine.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, decant Long Dai 2018 for at least 60 minutes before serving. Serve at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F) in large Bordeaux-style glasses to enhance its aromatic profile and allow the wine to express its full character.

Storage and Aging Potential

Long Dai 2018 possesses excellent aging potential. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the wine can evolve gracefully over the next 10–15 years, developing greater complexity and depth while maintaining its structural integrity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 75%

• Marselan: 17%

• Cabernet Franc: 8%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%