Few concoctions from Chinese medicine appeal to me as the vast majority seem to follow the principle that anything that’s good for your health must be bitter. Longan and red date (also known as jujubes) are a possible exception. The drink is made by boiling both naturally sweet fruits and is said to improve energy levels and blood circulation. How much of that is true, I don’t know.
The drink was a transparent rich red-brown colour with hints of red date in its sweet nose. Served chilled, the sweetness of sugar cane emerged ahead of a subtle smokiness from the longan followed swiftly by a light acidity from the red dates that mellow with a gentle sweetness in the finish and lingering in the aftertaste. Overall, this is an enjoyable beverage, but given the choice, I’d prefer it without the acidity of the red dates.
This pack of Yeo’s Longan Red Date Drink contained 150 ml. It was produced in Malaysia and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2018.