Shandong, at a glance
Shandong is the region that will get you the most bang for your buck if you’re planning on buying wine.
From a climate perspective, Shandong is in a band of warm, dry weather patterns known as a “monsoonal microclimate.” The summers are fairly comfortable, with little to no humidity and plenty of sunshine. The winter is also enjoyable thanks to its mild temperatures, great winds and even better wines. In regards to grapes, there are actually two varieties of grapes used in Shandong—the Bohea and the Yancha. Both are in part responsible for the wonderful red wines we have here: these two grape varieties can make extremely high-quality reds with low alcohol levels (around 13%) that age well over time!
The Eastern Province of Shandong
This is a region largely associated with China’s northeastern provinces, and for good reason.
Shandong Province has rich historical and cultural significance, being where Chinese civilization began with the ancient state of Yan (the “state of Hu” mentioned in the Book of Rites). The Shandong wine region encompasses an area that includes the cities of Qingdao, Yantai and Jinan. The climate is temperate continental, with large areas of fertile soil in which to grow grapes. This area also boasts some excellent ports from which to export its wines.
Grapes
- Mazuelo: Aka Carignan, is grown in the Shandong peninsula area with a large percentage of this grape going towards sparkling wine production. It is also used to make red varietal wines as well as wines made by some of the foreign invested wineries in Shandong.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Grown all over Shandong, this grape is responsible for the majority of red varietal wines in that region. The varietal wines tend to be less tannic and more fruit forward than their French or American counterparts, but overall are quite enjoyable.
- Merlot: There are many vineyards planted to this grape throughout China, and there are several wineries making 100% Merlot wines from these grapes. This grape variety is also blended into many reds within China, due to its softer tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon and its ease for production.
Vineyards of Shandong
Shandong is a maritime province that sits on the south coast of China (north and west of Beijing). The highlands in Shandong are mountainous, with elevations ranging from 1,000-2,400 feet above sea level. Shandong has a humid, subtropical climate and needs irrigation for most vineyards. The terrain is quite hilly with deep valleys that run north to south, making it difficult to mechanize the vineyards. The region has very modern equipment and practices along with ancient methods that have been passed down through generations of wine families.
There are several major regions within the province: Jiaodong Peninsula is a coastal area known for its fruits and vegetables; Yantai Peninsula which also produces fruits and vegetables; Laizhou Bay is located on the Yellow Sea; and Wei River Valley where most of the vineyards are planted.
China’s wines are unlike any other, yet they’re all worth trying.
As you explore different wine regions of China, you may find that the wines grown in Shandong are unlike any others. However, they’re still worth exploring to experience how truly unique China’s wines can be.
The unique climate and soil of Shandong bring out a taste and flavor profile that is not frequently found in other wines around the world. These characteristics make it easy to see why Chinese wine experts consider the region to be an important piece of Chinese history.