Oak barrels, imported from France, fill the castle's cellar. Photos by Zou Hong / China Daily

Imagine roaming around Bordeaux before spending the night in a luxury chateau where wine is served straight from the barrel.

While this dream might remain unreachable for most wine lovers living in Beijing, there is now a weekend getaway in Miyun county serving up a very close alternative.

The journey along the Beijing-Chengde Expressway (drive from Taiyanggong Bridge along the North Third Ring Road and take the No 17 Exit) might not sound romantic, but prepare to be dazzled.

After roughly one hour on the road, the silhouette of a castle slips into view. It stands perched on top of rolling hills not unlike the French countryside.

Covering an area of more than 500 hectares, the castle, named Chateau Changyu AFIP Global, was built four years ago by established Chinese red wine producer, Changyu Pioneer Wine Co Ltd.

The giant Gothic castle at the center of the chateau emits a subtle charm with facades of pale-yellow brickwork and twisted iron balconies.

Encircling the building is a large lawn and a dramatic 20,000-square-meter pond, on which swans float by in their usual aimless manner.

Tree-lined paths whisk explorers off to a second sight, European Town.

This complex of two-floor European-style buildings includes restaurants, pubs, cigar bars and bakeries. There is even a small church.

The picturesque scene attracts an army of photographers, mostly snapping shots of the recently married in romantic poses, according to Ruan Shili, vice-general manager of the European chateau.

However, Ruan added, the setting is not primarily a spot for wedding photos.

Chateau Changyu AFIP Global is a winery and resort that provides a blend of services associated with wine: visiting the private wine museum, premium wine tasting and even enjoying its famed red wine SPA.

The private wine museum is located inside the castle. By recording China's oldest red wine brand, the museum guides visitors through the history of the country's wine industry, as well as offering up tips on wine appreciation.

Other points of interest on the museum tour deal with the creation of bottles, barrels and stoppers, with opportunities for visitors to try out what they learn.

"Guests can also make a label with their photo on a bottle of wine, which is a perfect gift to celebrate friendship, marriage or other meaningful moments," Ruan said.

Under the castle is a 3,000-sq-m cellar where more than 860 oak barrels of wine are arranged in rows. Some have a copper plate engraved with the name of the barrel's owner.

The oak barrels, imported from France, are used for only five years before being replaced since the woody flavor fades with time, Ruan said.

The final treat for guests is offered annually as the harvest comes in - the opening of the chateau's vineyard to tourists.

Borrowing a basket and a pair of scissors, visitors can wander around at ease, picking off grapes for the journey home.

So, while Beijing might not be first on the lips for long-range travelers, a taste of Europe can easily be experienced on the outskirts of Beijing with fine wines and a castle.

China Daily

Chateau Changyu AFIP Global is a popular place for wedding photos.

European Town is a short walk from the castle, providing restaurants, pubs, bakeries and even a small church.

A look inside the "town" church, which is used for various events.

(China Daily 11/03/2010)