Treasury Wine Estates (TWE), in partnership with Australian Grape & Wine, Wine Australia and the China Alcoholic Drinks Association, is looking for four Australian viticulturists and winemakers to participate in the second year of the Australia-China Winemaker Immersion Program – with applications closing 26 July.
The industry-first exchange program was launched at TWE’s Shanghai office in February 2025, the result of meetings in November 2024 to discuss ways to build greater cooperation between Australian and Chinese wine industries, following the dropping of heavy tariffs imposed in 2020.
The program sees winemakers and viticulturists from both countries experiencing the broader wine industry – including research and development, winemaking techniques and viticultural education and practical exposure – in each other’s markets. It aims to support innovation, capability building and long-term cooperation between two dynamic wine markets, nurturing the next generation of international wine industry professionals.
The 2026 Australian stage invited four Chinese winemakers and viticulturalists to visit South Australia’s wine regions over March and April, including TWE's new $15 million low- and no-alcohol wine production facility.
The Chinese stage of the exchange will start in late August, with the Australian cohort experiencing four weeks of practical winery immersion, technical exchange and industry engagements during the 2026 Chinese harvest, travelling to the Ningxia and Shandong wine regions.
Participants will also engage with China’s wine industry body, the China Alcoholic Drinks Association, as well as China Agricultural University, diplomatic representatives and selected customers.
TWE chief supply & sustainability officer, Kerrin Petty, said the program is about more than technical skills.
“It’s about cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and lasting relationships across the Australian and Chinese wine industries,” said Petty.
“After seeing the passion and dedication of the visiting Chinese wine professionals, we welcome applications from Australian winemakers and viticulturists ready to broaden their horizons, share ideas, and learn from one of the world’s most dynamic wine markets.”
Applications are now open online at agw.org.au, and close on 26 July.
