The start of a new year is always an opportunity for a fresh start. On January 29, 2025, the Chinese New Year will be celebrated, marking the arrival of the Year of the Snake — a symbol of transformation, wisdom, and elegance.
Chinese New Year is one of the world’s largest celebrations, and it’s also the perfect time to discover the fascinating wines coming from China, increasingly recognized internationally and attracting winemakers from all over the world.
With growing investments in modern technologies, Chinese producers have been asserting themselves with their ability to produce world-class wines, skillfully balancing tradition and innovation.
Ancient Origins and Production Tradition
The history of Chinese wine is ancient, and although wine consumption was common during the Bronze Age, it disappeared over time, replaced by traditional alcoholic beverages made from sorghum, millet, rice, and fruits like lychee and Asian plum. It was during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) that grape wine was rediscovered, but it only became widespread during the Tang Dynasty (608 – 907).
In 1982, the first modern wine producer in China emerged: Changyu.
Changyu: The Pioneer of Chinese Winemaking
Founded in 1892 by Zhang Bishi, a Chinese diplomat, Changyu began producing wine in Yantai, after importing over 500,000 vine plants from the U.S. and Europe. With the support of Austrian winemaker August Wilhelm Baron von Babo, Changyu paved the way for modern winemaking in China. Today, Changyu is the largest Chinese wine producer, with properties across multiple regions and a portfolio that exports to more than 20 countries.
Changyu Moser: Two Cultures United to Create World-Class Wines
In 2015, Changyu partnered with Austrian winemaker Lenz Moser to create Château Changyu Moser XV. This ambitious project aims to produce some of China’s best and most important wines, with a special focus on the Ningxia region. The region’s climatic conditions, with extreme temperature variations, provide the perfect environment for high-quality wines. One of the most fascinating innovations from the winery is the creation of the Cabernet Blanc de Noir.
The Cabernet Blanc de Noir – A White from Red Grapes
This unique wine is made from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, but with an innovative winemaking technique. During pressing, only the juice extracted in the first 20 minutes is used, resulting in a lighter, more aromatic wine with tropical fruit notes and distinct minerality. The Moser Family Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc de Noir and the Helan Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc de Noir are prime examples of this winemaking revolution.
Two Wines, Two Achievements
The Moser Family Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc de Noir, affectionately known as “Family White,” is an example of innovation and sophistication. Subtle barrel aging enhances its fruity character, while notes of grapefruit and blackcurrant caress the palate. Silky and harmonious, it combines elegance and lightness in one glass, offering a unique tasting experience.
The Helan Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc de Noir has become a true cult wine in Ningxia. Produced from the smallest Cabernet Sauvignon berries in the world, grown under extreme conditions in the desert, this wine offers a captivating blend of exotic aromas. Its balance of elegance and hedonistic richness, with a lingering finish, makes it a unique moment of indulgence.
Toast to the Year of the Snake
This Year of the Snake, go beyond borders and celebrate with Changyu Moser XV wines. Try them and bring the true essence of China to your table, with uniquely flavored wines crafted in the heart of Ningxia, available here!
