Yantai, China — A white wine from Longting Winery in Yantai has drawn international acclaim, marking a milestone for China’s emerging wine industry. The winery’s Petit Manseng, known locally as Xiao Mang Sen, was praised by global judges for its bright acidity, refined structure, and aromatic complexity.
Recognition at recent international tastings, particularly at the London Wine Fair, has bolstered the confidence of Chinese vintners. “When we saw that wine being appreciated by top professionals, it gave us real confidence,” said a Longting representative. “We felt that what we were doing in Yantai had meaning beyond China.”
The London Wine Fair served not only as a venue to showcase wines but also as a hub for cross-cultural engagement. In collaboration with Master of Wine Michael Palij, Longting led a professional tasting session attended by importers, sommeliers, and critics. The event aimed to present a serious and authentic image of Chinese wine to the global market.
Palij, an experienced figure in the wine trade and an early proponent of new wine regions, expressed optimism about China’s potential. “Half of me is thrilled by the ambition and energy I see from winemakers like Song,” he said. “It reminds me of industries that are young and still exploring what’s possible. That spirit of experimentation is essential — and very promising.”
Despite the encouraging reception, challenges remain. Perceptions about Chinese wine continue to lag behind its quality. “There is still a perception gap,” Song noted. “Many buyers are surprised to learn that China produces fine wine at all, let alone wine that can compete globally. We’re still working to shift those assumptions.”
As Chinese producers like Longting strive to redefine the global narrative around their wines, events such as the London Wine Fair offer vital platforms for visibility and validation, signaling a new chapter in the country’s winemaking journey.
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