Located in Shandong Province along the Yellow Sea, Yantai has a long winemaking history and is home to Changyu Pioneer Wine Company, China’s oldest and largest wine producer. In recent years, the region has made significant strides in developing a vibrant and diverse wine tourism offer – ranging from boutique wineries to educational experiences, heritage attractions, and business tourism infrastructure.
The July 2025 mission, led by GWC Secretary General Catherine Leparmentier, included visits to leading estates such as Mystic Island Winery, Long Dai, Runaway Cow Winery, and Longting Vineyard, showcasing innovations in sustainability, hospitality, and cultural integration. The delegation also engaged with representatives from the Yantai Wine Bureau, Changyu Group, and Yantai Institute of Technology and Science, highlighting the region’s education and research initiatives in wine and tourism.
©Runaway Cow Winery
“Yantai has demonstrated not only the technical capabilities and touristic appeal necessary to thrive in global wine tourism, but also a clear vision for inclusive and responsible growth,” said Leparmentier. “Their Observer Member status is an important step in deepening international dialogue and collaboration.”
As an Observer Member, Yantai will now participate in selected GWC events, have access to knowledge-sharing platforms, and benefit from expanded networking opportunities with full and observer members worldwide. The agreement also allows Yantai to use the GWC logo (with Observer Member label) in approved communications and events.
©Longting Winery
Yantai’s membership strengthens GWC’s representation in Asia and reinforces the Network’s commitment to showcasing excellence and innovation in wine tourism across all continents.
This milestone will be formally celebrated during the GWC AGM in Bordeaux, where representatives from Yantai will attend the official signing ceremony.
Learn more about GWC Observer Members