Hebei

Overview

Hebei is one of China's oldest and most important wine regions, located just northwest of Beijing. The Huailai Basin and Changli County are the two main areas, with a continental climate moderated by the Yan and Taihang mountains. The region is credited with producing China's first dry red and dry white wines in the modern era.

Great Wall Wine, Canaan Winery, and Domaine Franco-Chinois are among the key producers. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay are the main varieties, while Petit Manseng has also performed well in Huailai's dry, sunny conditions.

Key Varietals

• Cabernet SauvignonA structured red with blackcurrant and herbal notes from Huailai's gravelly soils.
• MerlotA round, approachable red widely planted in Changli and Huailai.
• ChardonnayA crisp white used for both still wines and sparkling base wines.
• Petit MansengAn aromatic white producing rich, tropical wines in Hebei's sunny sites.