China's wine regions have quietly become some of the most exciting in the world. From the high-altitude vineyards of Ningxia's Helan Mountain to the snow-fed basins of Xinjiang and the loess plateau of Shanxi, a new generation of producers is winning Decanter medals, Jancis Robinson endorsements, and seats on Cathay Pacific's business-class wine list — all while staying largely under the radar in Singapore.
We've just launched our China Wines collection, bringing together 35 bottles from seven of the country's leading estates. Here are six worth starting with.
Tiansai Skyline of Gobi Chardonnay Muscat 2023 — $46
An easy, floral introduction to Chinese white wine. Grown in Xinjiang's Yanqi Basin at the foot of the Tianshan mountains, this Chardonnay-Muscat blend is perfumed and refreshingly crisp, with just a touch of sweetness. A Decanter 2022 Silver medallist and a great gateway bottle if you're new to the category.
Changyu Noble Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 — $25
From Château Changyu, China's oldest winery (founded 1892), this is everyday drinking done right — ripe raspberry and blackberry fruit, a touch of oak and dried herb, and a smooth, silky finish. Proof that Chinese wine doesn't have to mean a big price tag.
Helan Qingxue Jiabeilan Reserve Red 2019 — $150
Helan Qingxue put Ningxia on the global wine map, and this Reserve Red is exactly why. Aged 14 months in French oak, it's dark, dense and layered with vanilla, blackcurrant and prune — a Double Gold AWSA winner with real ageing potential.
Kanaan Crazy Fang 2016 — $226
Kanaan's limited-edition flagship, named for founder Wang Fang's philosophy that perfecting wine and perfecting oneself are one and the same. A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon built for serious collectors, with the depth and structure to match.
Silver Heights Emma's Reserve 2017 — $238
Grown at 1,200 metres on Helan Mountain — one of China's highest vineyards — this Cabernet-Merlot blend is rich with dark cherry, plum, clove and tobacco, finished with fine velvety tannins. Long ageing potential for those willing to cellar it.
Grace Vineyard Chairman's Reserve 2018 — $238
Grace Vineyard's top-tier Bordeaux-style blend from the loess plateau of Shanxi. Cherry, cassis and dried herb sit over savoury oak complexity, with the structure and acidity to keep developing in the cellar for years to come.
Explore the full range in our China Wines collection.