Domaine de Long Dai, Xiao Mu Lan, Qiu Shan Valley, Blanc, 2025
The vintage
The 2025 vintage reflects the typicity of Penglai while standing out for its warm temperatures. The beginning of the growing season was marked by favourable rainfall, which stimulated vine growth. A sunny window during August then enabled good véraison and the onset of ripening. These conditions resulted in excellent maturity for the Marselan and Cabernet Franc varieties. However, the wetter end of the season delayed the ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon. To ensure optimal quality, several levels of selection were applied during the harvest, so that only the finest grapes were picked.
Location
Domaine de Long Dai is nestled in the heart of the Qiu Shan Valley, in the Shandong province in northeastern China. In this region, the climate is tempered by the influence of the Yellow Sea, located about 20 km away. The Qiu Shan Valley benefits from mild winters and granite soils, making it a suitable place for viticulture.
Terroir
The 42-hectare vineyard stretches across more than 600 terraces, following the agricultural tradition of the region. Winter in this region is dry and cold, but less severe than in other parts of the country. Summer is hot with a short rainy period in July and August, followed by two months of dry weather during the critical ripening period. The terrace system does not allow for uniform ripening of the grapes. Harvesting is done in several passes to ensure optimal ripeness.
Winemaking
Traditionally, these grapes are pressed as whole bunches in a gradual manner, in order to preserve the varietal’s aromatic typicity. After clarification, the musts begin fermentation at a temperature between 18 and 20°C, lasting for around 21 days.
Tasting
Clear appearance with delicate green highlights.
On the nose, it reveals the varietal’s typicity and the freshness of the region, with notes of passion fruit and pineapple.
The palate, fresh and taut with lively acidity, displays flavours of white peach, apricot, almond and a subtle herbal touch.
A long, refreshing finish.
Alcohol content
12,5
Grapes
Chardonnay
: 100 %