Australia-China Winemaker Immersion Program

Applications opening soon for Australian early-career winemakers and viticulturists

Dates: 29 August – 25 September 2026 (to be confirmed)
Locations: Beijing • Ningxia (Yinchuan) • Shandong (Yantai)
Cohort: Four Australian early-career winemakers/viticulturists

Applications open Wednesday, 8 July 2026.

About the Australia-China winemaker immersion program

The Australia–China Winemaker Immersion Program is an industry-first exchange initiative designed to strengthen collaboration, technical learning and long‑term relationships between the Australian and Chinese wine industries. Delivered by Treasury Wine Estates in partnership with Australian Grape & Wine, Wine Australia and the China Alcoholic Drinks Association (CADA) and supported by the South Australian Government’s Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), the program brings together emerging wine industry talent from both countries through hands‑on, in‑market immersion experiences.

Conducted over two reciprocal legs, the program sees winemakers and viticulturists from each country selected to experience wine, winemaking and viticultural education and practical exposure in each other’s markets.

By fostering two‑way knowledge exchange and enduring industry connections, the Australia–China Winemaker Immersion Program supports innovation, capability‑building and long‑term cooperation between two of the world’s most dynamic wine sectors, while helping to develop the next generation of internationally minded wine industry professionals.

Why apply?

Immerse yourself in China’s dynamic wine sector with hands-on production experience, technical learning, and market insights – all designed to build skills, networks, and cultural understanding that last a lifetime.

Across an engaging four-week program, participants will receive practical exposure to Chinese winemaking and viticultural practice during the 2026 harvest across two of China’s major wine producing provinces, Shandong and Ningxia.

Participants will also enjoy local cultural experiences and engagements with leading Chinese institutions and industry bodies that will expand your professional perspectives and deepen global industry knowledge.

What you’ll experience

• Winery immersion in two of China’s major wine regions, including hands-on experience at Penfolds Ningxia Winery.
• Technical learning with local industry experts in winemaking and viticulture in each region.
• Market exposure in Beijing, including engagements with the China Alcoholic Drinks Association and industry partners.
• Cultural experiences including city tours of Beijing, Yantai and Yinchuan.

Who should apply

We welcome early-career Australian winemakers or viticulturists who are collaborative, curious, and eager to build international experience and professional networks.

Inclusions:

The program includes return economy flights to China, all accommodation, transfers, and meals (excluding on leisure days). 

How to apply

More details coming soon.

Applications opening on Wednesday 8 July.

Program partners

Australian Grape & Wine • Wine Australia • China Alcoholic Drinks Association • Treasury Wine Estates

Proudly supported by PIRSA.