China’s National Day: What to drink?

Despite not being a traditional gifting occasion in China, we bring you wines as recommended by some of China’s leading wine merchants to sip while watching the fireworks on China’s National Day.

The National Day of the People’s Republic of China commemorates  the memorial day of the founding of the Republic on 1 October 1949 (actually the Chinese independence day was a week or so earlier on 21 September 1949). From 1 October, China holds a seven day ‘Golden Week’ where people travel the length and breadth of the country to visit family.

Despite Golden Week not being a traditional gifting week in China, we bring you wines as recommended by some of China’s leading wine merchants to sip while watching the fireworks.

ASC Fine Wines

ASC has chosen Yalumba’s Virgilus 2014.

“Yalumba was one of the earliest New World winemakers to be seduced by Viognier’s charms, with the first plantings established in 1980 at Eden Valley.

The Virgilius was first released in 1998 after two decades of experimentation and research. A key to this wine is flavour accumulation in the fruit; hence, a cool climate region such as Eden Valley provides a late ripening season.

Intense aromas on the nose of white peaches, apricots and ginger with complex apricots and white stone fruit flavours which will suit large family gatherings of new and perhaps, experienced wine drinkers.

“It can go very well with almost all kinds of Chinese food in different styles. It is very aromatic and even to grandma and aunties – who don’t normal drink wine – this could be a great choice.”

Available from ASC Fine Wines online store.

Cheers

Angqian from Cheers recommends an Eiswein Blaufränkisch 2012 from Landauer Winery in Burgenland.

“This is a sweet wine from a historic family estate in Austria dating back to 1650. The sunny south eastern hills around the village, Rust, are among the best traditional vineyards in Austria.

“It is a balanced sweet wine perfect for enjoying with family.”

It has also won a slew of awards including six gold medals at the International Wine Challenge in 2015.

Available from Cheers wines online store.

Summergate Fine Wine & Spirits

Summergate Fine Wine and Spirits suggests the hearty Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

“Produced by the famous Marcelo Papa, Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon is offering lush cherry and blackberry aromas with a touch of smoke.

“With firm tannins perfectly integrated into a silky texture, Marques de Casa Concha is the perfect pairing for roasted meat or beef stews.”

Available through Langton’s East Asia.

Treasury Wine Estates

TWE advocates a warming glass of Penfolds Tawny Ports.

“Penfolds fortified wines have been a drink we have been promoting for festive occasions to enjoy during holidays and celebrations such as the China National Day – mainly as part of cocktails. Most people may know Penfolds for as a producer of red wines but Penfolds was actually founded by a doctor making fortified wines for medicinal purposes back in 1844.

“Today, instead of treating illness, our fortified wines such as Penfolds Grandfather Tawny and Penfolds Club Tawny are used to create delicious cocktails for celebrations. It is often promoted at on-premise outlets such as bars in China and will be a focus of promotion during the upcoming China National Day holidays.”

Available through Jebsen Fine Wine.