A-Wines California Showcases Innovation, Heritage, and Culinary Pairings at WineCon Chengdu (China)

Published on March 31, 2025 in A-Wines news

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This March, A-Wines California had the privilege of attending Wine Con, the premier wine fair in Chengdu, China. Known as one of the largest and most influential wine exhibitions in Asia, Wine Con attracts distributors, importers, and enthusiasts from all corners of the region. For us, it was not only an opportunity to strengthen relationships with existing partners in China but also a chance to introduce new brands and fresh ideas to one of the fastest-growing wine markets in the world.

Wine Consumption in Asia: A Growing Opportunity

Asia, and particularly China, continues to be a rapidly expanding market for wine. With rising disposable income, a growing middle class, and a strong cultural interest in premium food and beverage experiences, wine consumption in China has evolved from occasional indulgence to a lifestyle choice. While red wines have traditionally dominated, white wines, rosés, and sparkling wines are steadily gaining popularity among younger consumers and female buyers. Additionally, consumers are becoming increasingly knowledgeable and adventurous, seeking wines with a story, craftsmanship, and authenticity.

In this dynamic environment, A-Wines California is committed to offering brands that meet these evolving preferences: wines that are bold, approachable, high-quality, and memorable.

Showcasing our Portfolio

At WineCon Chengdu, we presented both familiar and new faces in our portfolio — a reflection of California’s diverse wine regions and styles.

1. Lapis Luna – A brand that captures the romance of California wines, Lapis Luna is known for delivering elegant, expressive reds and whites at accessible price points. Its eye-catching label and smooth, fruit-forward style made it a favorite among visitors looking for wines with both visual and palate appeal.
2. Big Red Monster – As its name suggests, Big Red Monster is unapologetically bold. Rich, robust, and brimming with dark fruit flavors and spice, this wine was a huge hit with Chengdu visitors — a perfect match for the city’s spicy and flavorful cuisine.
3. Jordan Winery – Bringing sophistication and Old World elegance to the table, Jordan Winery stood out for its refined Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays. With a focus on balance and terroir expression, Jordan’s wines appealed to connoisseurs and fine dining buyers looking for wines with depth and complexity.
4. Ancient Peaks Winery – From the heart of Paso Robles, Ancient Peaks represented California’s premium side. These wines showcased concentrated fruit, structure, and a sense of place — appealing to those seeking luxury wines for gifting and high-end hospitality.
5. Pound Cake – Pound Cake brought something fun and playful to the show. This brand has found a niche with its sweet, smooth style, offering a crowd-pleasing option that resonates especially with younger consumers and casual wine drinkers.
6. Adulation – A wine that lives up to its name, Adulation received plenty of admiration at Wine Con. With its rich, ripe flavors and elegant finish, it was an easy favorite for those looking for an affordable luxury wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes.
7. Rebel Ridge – Finally, Rebel Ridge — our newest American brand — drew significant attention. With bold Zinfandels and approachable blends, this label is designed to capture the adventurous spirit of wine lovers in Asia, combining power and drinkability.

Food and Wine Pairings in Chengdu

One of the highlights of attending WineCon in Chengdu was the chance to explore the city’s incredible culinary offerings. Famous for its spicy Sichuan cuisine, Chengdu provided a perfect backdrop to showcase how versatile California wines can be.

Spicy hotpot, one of the city’s iconic dishes, found a surprisingly harmonious match with the bold, juicy flavors of Big Red Monster and Rebel Ridge Zinfandel. The heat of the spices was beautifully balanced by the wine’s ripe fruit and smooth tannins.

Kung Pao chicken, with its sweet and savory notes, paired perfectly with the round, silky profile of Adulation and the fruity elegance of Lapis Luna. The balance of flavors highlighted both the food and the wine.

Mapo tofu, with its complex spice and numbing Sichuan peppercorn, was best paired with Pound Cake’s smooth sweetness, which softened the intensity of the dish and created a playful contrast.

Even more delicate dishes like steamed dumplings and stir-fried vegetables found excellent companions in the restrained elegance of Jordan Chardonnay, providing a crisp and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the food.