A vineyard that began with a one-hectare trial plot in 2011 has expanded to nearly 670 hectares in Tharmo village and the surrounding areas of Lhokha, Xizang autonomous region.

Sitting at more than 3,700 meters above sea level, the area was once barren, wind-swept land covered with rocks and sand.

Years of soil improvement, irrigation, and variety trials have transformed it into the world's highest-altitude large-scale grape-growing base.More than 60 varieties of the fruit were tested over the years, with a small number selected for the plateau environment, including the locally developed Yajiang Number One.

Li Xiaoping, deputy general manager of Pazhu Vineyard, said the winery produced about 500,000 bottles of wine last year, with products sold to several inland provinces and exported to Hong Kong.

The industry has also created jobs for nearby residents. Sonam Penba, who joined the winery six years ago after working in construction far from home, said he learned how to grow grapes and make wine, and now trains new workers.

Today, the area combines grape cultivation, wine production, picking, and tourism, extending the industry from agriculture into processing and travel experiences.

Zhu Lixin contributed to this story.