Where it all started in Huailai
Chateau Sungod takes its name from the Sanggan River, whose basin it occupies in Huailai County, north-west of Beijing. It opened in 1979 as an experimental vineyard for Great Wall, focused on research into wine production, and over the years introduced many international grape varieties, among them Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Riesling and Chardonnay. It is one of the oldest and most varied vineyards in China.
Great Wall's flagship estate
Today Chateau Sungod belongs to COFCO, the state food group that owns Great Wall, and it is one of the group's top estates. Working with the Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland, its winemaker Li Fudong makes classically structured reds, and the estate is particularly known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
Wines for state banquets
Great Wall wines have long been a natural choice for official occasions in Beijing. When President Xi Jinping hosted US President Donald Trump in 2017, most of the wines served came from Chateau Sungod, including a Cabernet Sauvignon, a Riesling, a Syrah and a traditional-method sparkling wine.
Why it matters
Chateau Sungod links the early days of modern Chinese wine with today's quality estates, and shows why many critics see Huailai as one of China's most balanced wine regions.