China

China is now one of the world's largest grape-growing nations by area, with vineyards spread across vast and varied landscapes from the Gobi Desert to the humid eastern coast. The most promising fine-wine regions cluster in the northwest, including Ningxia, Xinjiang, and Shandong.

Cabernet Sauvignon dominates plantings, but Marselan, Cabernet Gernischt, and local varieties are gaining attention. While much production still goes to table grapes and brandy, a growing number of boutique wineries are winning international awards and redefining what Chinese wine can be.