Long Dai 2020

Winery Background and History

Domaine de Long Dai, established in 2008 by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), is located in the Qiu Shan Valley of Shandong Province, China. The estate spans over 30 hectares, meticulously cultivated across 400 terraces. The name “Long Dai” translates to “Château of the Mountains,” reflecting the estate’s terraced vineyards nestled among rolling hills. With a focus on sustainable viticulture and precision winemaking, Long Dai aims to produce world-class wines that embody the unique characteristics of its environment.

Producer and Winemaker

Long Dai 2020 is crafted under the guidance of Technical Director Denise Cosentino. 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. The 2020 vintage experienced a cool growing season with sufficient spring rainfall, leading to one of the lowest yields at Domaine de Long Dai. These conditions contributed to the wine’s freshness and elegance.

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 12 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 2020 presents a vibrant bouquet of blackcurrants and blackberries, complemented by spicy notes of cassia root and anise. On the palate, it offers a luscious texture with flavors of ripe red fruits like raspberries and strawberries, intertwined with hints of toasted nuts. The tannins are remarkably delicate, providing a velvety mouthfeel, and the finish is long and spiced, leaving a lingering impression of cassia and anise.

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 2020 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 2020 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: 56%

• Cabernet Franc: 24%

• Marselan: 20%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%