Ringing in the Year of the Dragon with Emma Gao of Silver Heights

Nestled amid the enchanting landscape of Ningxia, China, the Silver Heights winery is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and passion in winemaking. Founded in 2007 by the dynamic father-daughter duo of Lin Gao and Emma Gao, this boutique winery has become a beacon of China’s flourishing wine scene, producing exceptional wines that have earned global recognition.

The Silver Heights story is one of ambition and unwavering belief in the potential of Ningxia as a world-class wine region. Lin Gao, the patriarch of the family and originating force behind this venture, had long envisioned the possibilities that this region held. Emma, his daughter, thus embarked on a winemaking journey that led her to Bordeaux, France. There, Emma honed her craft while interning at renowned estates like Château Calon-Ségur, and her passion for winemaking grew.

Returning to China, Emma joined forces with her father to make their dream a reality. They began crafting wines on her parents’ farm, marking the inception of Silver Heights. Over the years, what started as a modest project has blossomed into one of China’s most exciting boutique wineries. Their dedication to quality, respect for tradition, and relentless pursuit of excellence have set them apart in the global wine arena.

Silver Heights offers a range of remarkable wines that reflect the unique terroir of Ningxia. The Family Reserve Chardonnay, a standout among their offerings, has graced the tables of distinguished guests from around the world. This wine captures the essence of the region with its bright acidity and luscious fruit notes, showcasing the Gao family’s commitment to producing world-class wines.

Another jewel in their portfolio is Emma’s Reserve, a limited-edition Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals Bordeaux’s Grand Crus. Crafted with meticulous care, this wine is aged in new French oak for 24 months, resulting in a wine of remarkable complexity and finesse. It has earned accolades and recognition, cementing its status as a symbol of China’s rising prominence in the world of wine.

The Summit, Silver Heights’ flagship wine, is a Bordeaux-style blend that embodies the Gao family’s pursuit of excellence. Composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this opulent wine undergoes 12 months of aging in new French oak. It is a testament to their commitment to crafting wines that not only showcase the region’s potential but also pay homage to China’s rich cultural heritage.

Beyond their exceptional wines, Silver Heights also stands out for its sustainable and environmentally friendly winemaking practices. The winery embraces organic and biodynamic farming methods, reflecting a deep respect for the land and a desire to preserve its natural beauty.

As China’s wine industry undergoes a remarkable renaissance, Silver Heights shines as a symbol of innovation, dedication, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Their wines tell a story of a region coming into its own, producing wines that are not just celebrated locally but are gaining recognition on the global stage.

We are incredibly excited to be able to share the entire range of Emma and Lin Gao’s project, Silver Heights Winery at the Riedel Wine Bar & Restaurant here in Bangkok on February 10th. On this evening, our friends at Riedel will be serving a coveted magnum of Silver Heights as well as Emma’s most distinuished cuvees.

This will be available at a price of 8,888thb per person that includes a glass pour from the magnum paired with an assortment of Lunar new year inspired bites such as Pickled Mussels in Black vinegar, Diver Scallop XO & Fingerlime, and Lionshead meatballs with Iberico pork & truffle.

As well, Riedel will be hosting a limited private affair, a private room booking with a full menu paired with the entire range of wines from Silver Heights. This is available on the evening of the 10th as well for a party of up to 12 people for 88,888thb (or 7888thb per person) with an absolutely incredible menu of Chinese wines and inspired dishes as can be found below.

Amuse bouche – pickled mussels, cucumber, black vinegar 

YP Rose  – steamed skrei cod, superior soy sauce, crispy sea cucumber 

YP Amandine –  diver scallop X.O, scallop roe chips,  finger lime

SH Chardonnay reserve 2021 – king crab, durian custard, wild herbs

SH Ningxia, Pinot noir 2020 – iberico pork “lionshead”, winter truffle 

SH Family Red, Cab.Sau./Merlot  2018 – braised abalone & wild mushroom rice pot, sea urchin

SH The Summit Cab.Sau. 2020 – wagyu, black garlic, sichuan pepper, chrysanthemum 

Dark chocolate ganache, fried milk, peanut brittle,  wild honeycomb

Ronnefeldt Apricot-Peach Oolong 

As well, in recognition of this auspicious time of year, Riedel has created two incredibly limited designs of handmade glass decanters designed to commemorate the prosperity to be brought by the year of the wood dragon. These delicate and rare glass decanters will be available for sale through Riedel as part of our celebration of Chinese winemaking and the Lunar New Year.

In order to book for February 10th or inquire further about this selection of glassware and wines please feel free to reach out directly to Riedel Wine Bar at 02 656 1133 or message them via Facebook

Should you have any questions or comments about Emma Gao’s Silver Heights wines we are always available to help at marketing@winegarage.asia.

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