Did you know there is a network of tunnels under Beijing? It’s called the Underground City or Underground Great Wall.
Constructed during the 1970s as a defensive measure against Cold War-era threats, the vast network of tunnels was once reserved for confidential military use. In modern times, most parts of these tunnels remain strictly private and off-limits to the public. However, a small section of these tunnels has undergone a fascinating transformation, now serving as an unconventional wine cellar.
Nathan surprised me by signing us up for a wine tasting event – when he told me it was in an underground tunnel section, I was not sure what to expect. I had heard about these tunnels before but never been, so I was also really excited.
We went to an unassuming location in Beijing’s Shuangjing area, and were led down two floors into the tunnel area. Jacqueline, our event host, gave us a tour and explained some of the history of the tunnels.
Off to the left was a room where we would be having our wine tasting. The ambiance is both mysterious and inviting, making it a really unique setting for a distinctive tasting experience.
For this event we were treated to a selection of eight different Spanish wines, carefully curated to offer a diverse and delightful tasting journey. The tasting began with a refreshing champagne and a crisp white wine, then we gradually transitioned to the robust flavors of various reds.
Our host Jacqueline, of “WTF: Wine Tasting with Friends” was very knowledgeable and made the experience really fun. There’s no need to be a wine expert – you just need to enjoy drinking wine!
Accompanying the wine tasting were an array of snacks like chocolate, nuts, crisps, crackers, and Jamon Iberico ham, that enhanced the overall enjoyment of the event (and keeping us from getting too tipsy during the tastings!).
To round out the experience we tried a taste of Pascali Vermouth, a distinctive and aromatic finale to the underground wine journey.
In a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, the wine tasting in Beijing’s Underground City stands out as a testament to the city’s ability to blend the old with the new, turning Cold War relics into spaces for contemporary enjoyment. For those fortunate enough to attend, it was an enjoyable evening set against the backdrop of Beijing’s hidden tunnels!
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