Exploring the Emerging Regions: Chinese Wines Making Their Mark

While French varieties often dominate discussions in the wine industry, it is crucial to acknowledge the growing prominence of Chinese wines. As global tastes evolve, there is an increasing appreciation for diverse regions beyond the traditional boundaries. China is home to several unique wine-producing regions that are gaining recognition for their quality and distinctive attributes.

A 2019 study by HKTDC revealed that 75% of respondents preferred French wine, while 46% favored Chinese wine and 30% chose Italian. In contrast, only 13% expressed a strong interest in American wines, indicating a considerable Chinese wine market presence in China and Hong Kong.

To familiarize oneself with Chinese wines, it is essential to understand the mainstream regions that are making significant impacts in the wine industry. Each region offers unique qualities and characteristics. Below are five key regions to explore before delving into the realm of Chinese wines:

Ningxia: 

Ningxia, situated in northwestern China between the Yellow River and the Helan Mountains, is considered one of China’s most promising regions for grape cultivation. It has a continental climate characterized by dry conditions, hot summers, long cold winters, and high elevations that result in intense sunlight and cool nights. The substantial temperature variation between day and night facilitates the slow maturation of grapes, allowing for a balance of acidity and phenolic compounds in the fruit.

The eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains in Ningxia are recognized both domestically and internationally as the "golden zone" for wine grape cultivation. The wines produced from this area have become a "purple name card" for Ningxia. The region benefits from abundant sunlight, high heat, significant temperature differences between day and night, low rainfall, and well-drained, mineral-rich sandy soils, providing a robust foundation for the production of premium wines. Notable wineries include Helan Qingxue Vineyard (賀蘭晴雪), Jade Vineyard (嘉地酒园), and Kanaan Winery (迦南美地).

Major grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Gernischt, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, etc.

Shandong:

Shandong is the largest wine-producing region in China, accounting for 40% of the nation’s total wine production, with over 140 wineries. Located on the eastern coast of China, Shandong experiences a maritime climate, featuring relatively cooler summers and warmer winters compared to inland provinces. The region benefits from ample summer rainfall due to the East Asian monsoon. Most vineyards are situated on south-facing slopes with excellent drainage, preventing excessive soil water accumulation during the rainy season.
In 2018, Lafite Rothschild, one of France’s most prestigious wine merchants, launched its first Chinese wine brand, Domaine de Long Dai, with the winery located in Penglai. The well-known Changyu Pioneer Wine are also originated from Shandong. Major grape varieties: Cabernet Gernischt, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay, etc.

Yunnan:

Yunnan, located in southwestern China, is home to numerous wineries. The region lies between 21°-29° north latitude, with vineyards spread across mountainous and hilly terrain, making viticulture challenging. However, Yunnan’s high elevation mitigates the low-latitude temperatures. Vineyards often reach altitudes of up to 1,800 meters, enjoying ample sunlight.

The significant temperature differences between day and night during the growing season prolong the ripening period, ensuring a balance of maturity and acidity while enhancing flavor development. Yunnan’s mineral-rich soils contribute to the unique flavors of its grapes.

Hebei:

Hebei Province, situated on China's eastern coast between latitudes 36° and 42° north, features a varied landscape that ranges from the flat plains in the south to the rugged Yan Mountains in the north. Despite its proximity to the Bohai Sea, Hebei experiences a predominantly continental climate characterized by hot summers with significant monsoon rainfall and cold, dry winters influenced by Siberian air masses. This province is particularly notable for encircling the capital city, Beijing, and comprises several sub-regions, each with its own unique geographic traits.

One such sub-region is Shacheng, recognized for its hilly landscape and home to the renowned Great Wall Wine. Its closeness to Beijing facilitates the marketing and distribution of wines to the city's consumers. The relatively arid climate and abundant summer sunlight in Shacheng create ideal conditions for grape cultivation.

Another prominent sub-region is Changli, often referred to as "China's Bordeaux." Located near the Bohai Sea, it experiences higher humidity levels, which require careful vineyard disease management. In northern China, grapevines need protection during the winter months.

Hebei's primary wine varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Marselan, the latter sometimes regarded as a signature grape of China. In terms of total production, sales, and output, Hebei holds the second position in the country, following Shandong, with both provinces contributing to over 50% of China's domestic wine production.

Xinjiang:

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is recognized as a distinctive wine-producing region. With approximately 6,470 hectares of vineyards, it astonishingly yields around 100,000 tons of grapes each year. Situated in northwestern China and sharing borders with Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan, Xinjiang experiences an extreme climate characterized by minimal rainfall, which requires extensive drought management efforts. The significant temperature fluctuations between day and night contribute to the development of high-sugar, low-acidity grapes, primarily resulting in sweet wine production.

The region's remoteness poses challenges for wine transportation, leading to most wines being sold in bulk to winemakers for blending purposes. Although Xinjiang has yet to gain widespread recognition for quality, it has a long history of grape cultivation and holds considerable promise for the future.

Key sub-regions include Turpan and Hoxud, with prominent grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay.

These regions represent the primary wine-producing areas in China, each showcasing unique regions and grape varieties. While many are still in the experimental phase, efforts are underway to determine the most suitable grape varieties for their specific soils and climates. If you have the opportunity, consider sampling wines from these Chinese regions to appreciate the contrasts with traditional wine-producing areas.

In the upcoming issue, we will delve into various Chinese wineries. Stay tuned!