Yantai Becomes First Asian City to Join Great Wine Capitals Network as Observer Member

Yantai, a coastal city in China’s Shandong Province, has been admitted as the first Observer Member of the Great Wine Capitals Global Network. The decision was made after a mission by the network’s leadership in July 2025, which included visits to several of Yantai’s leading wineries and meetings with local officials and industry representatives. This move marks a significant step for both Yantai and the network, as it expands its reach into Asia and recognizes the city’s growing role in global wine tourism.

Yantai is known for its long history of winemaking and is home to Changyu Pioneer Wine Company, China’s oldest and largest wine producer. In recent years, the region has invested heavily in developing its wine tourism sector. Visitors to Yantai can now experience a range of attractions, from boutique wineries and heritage sites to educational programs and modern hospitality venues. The city’s efforts have focused on sustainability, innovation, and integrating local culture into the wine experience.

During the July 2025 mission, Catherine Leparmentier, Secretary General of the Great Wine Capitals Global Network, led a delegation that toured estates such as Mystic Island Winery, Long Dai, Runaway Cow Winery, and Longting Vineyard. These visits highlighted advances in sustainable practices and hospitality. The group also met with representatives from the Yantai Wine Bureau, Changyu Group, and Yantai Institute of Technology and Science. Discussions centered on education and research initiatives aimed at supporting the region’s wine and tourism industries.

Leparmentier stated that Yantai has shown both technical expertise and a clear vision for responsible growth in wine tourism. She emphasized that Observer Member status will help deepen international collaboration and knowledge sharing within the network. As an Observer Member, Yantai will participate in selected events organized by the Great Wine Capitals Global Network. The city will also have access to knowledge-sharing platforms and expanded networking opportunities with other members around the world.

The agreement allows Yantai to use the network’s logo with an Observer Member label in approved communications and events. This membership strengthens the network’s presence in Asia and supports its goal of promoting excellence and innovation in wine tourism across continents.

The formal celebration of Yantai’s new status will take place during the network’s annual general meeting in Bordeaux later this year. Representatives from Yantai are expected to attend the official signing ceremony. This development is seen as a milestone for both Yantai and the Great Wine Capitals Global Network as they work together to advance sustainable wine tourism on a global scale.