China has become an increasingly important player in the global wine industry, with its wine production gaining international recognition over the last few decades. Wine production in China dates back thousands of years, but modern winemaking began to develop in the 1980s and 1990s. Historically, China’s wine culture focused on fermented beverages like huangjiu and baijiu. After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, wine consumption grew, but it wasn’t until the late 20th century that Chinese winemakers began using international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 

China’s wine-producing regions are spread across various provinces, with the most notable being in the north and west of the country. Key wine regions include Ningxia, located in the north-central part of the country, often considered the heart of China’s wine industry. Shandong, located along the eastern coast, is China’s most established wine region. Xinjiang, in the far west of China, is known for its high-altitude vineyards. Finally, Hebei, located near Beijing, is another important region with an emerging wine scene. 

This country has different regions, each region offers a unique combination of soil, climate, and topography, allowing for a variety of wine styles to flourish. 

Chinese winemakers have embraced international grape varieties, which has been key in shaping the modern wine industry. While Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Syrah are the most widely planted varieties, other lesser-known varieties are also gaining traction. Chinese wines are often characterized by their bold flavors, high quality, and distinct regional profiles, reflecting the diverse terroirs of these various wine-producing areas.

Laguna Cellar featuring Ao Yun Shangri-La owned by LVMH is a prestigious and high-quality wine produced in the remote and rugged region of Shangri-La, located in the far southwestern part of China, near the Tibetan Plateau.