Fan Wang : Pionneering Chinese Wine
In the shadow of China's majestic Helan Mountains, a remarkable story of tradition, innovation, and passion unfolds. Fan Wang, founder of Kanaan Winery and Mulando Wines, is transforming the landscape of Chinese winemaking with a determination that echoes the legendary spirit of Mulan.
The Impossible Dream: Riesling in Ningxia
When Fan Wang declared her intention to plant Riesling in Ningxia, many considered it a "mission impossible." But like the legendary Mulan who dared to challenge conventions, Wang believed unwaveringly in the potential of her land. Her audacity paid off – she became the first winemaker to successfully cultivate Riesling in China, achieving what others didn't dare to attempt.
From Germany to Ningxia: A Journey Written in the Stars
After spending a decade immersed in Germany's rich wine culture, Wang made what she now sees as a destined decision. "After all I experienced, I am more sure that owning a winery in Ningxia is my destiny," she reflects. Her 12 years abroad created a unique bridge between international wine traditions and her Chinese heritage, perfectly positioning her for what was to come.
A Legacy of Innovation
Wine flows through Wang's veins. Her father, Mr. Wangfengyu, was one of the founders of Chinese fine wine from Ningxia, pioneering viticulture in the Helan Mountains sub-region. This family legacy, combined with her international experience, led Wang to establish Kanaan Winery in 2011, spanning 20 hectares and producing 80,000 bottles annually.
The Birth of Mulando: A Modern Legend
The story of Mulando draws inspiration from one of China's most beloved legends – Hua Mulan. The name "Mulando" carries deep symbolic meaning:
- "Mulan" represents the heroic spirit of the legendary warrior who, like Wang, broke barriers and achieved the impossible
- "Do" (pronounced like "flower" in Chinese) symbolizes each bottle as a bloom waiting to unfold, much like China's emerging wine industry
The Spirit of Mulan in Modern Winemaking
"Mulan has a name through the ages, which I sincerely admire," Wang explains. "The Women's Poetry Series is not only our sincere tribute but also our aspiration. We wish to be as tough, heroic, confident, and free as Mulan." This philosophy is reflected in every bottle of Mulando wine, each one representing a "flower" brewed by a modern-day Mulan, ready to bloom and showcase the vitality of Chinese winemaking.
The Helan Mountains Legacy
The winery's location in the Helan Mountains carries its own poetic significance. "Helan," meaning "fine horses," perfectly captures the power and elegance Wang strives for in her wines. Like Mulan's legendary steed, these wines carry the strength and grace of their terroir.
A New Chapter in Chinese Wine
China has emerged as the world's sixth-largest wine producer, with visionaries like Wang leading the charge. As one wine expert notes, "These wines represent a new era of Chinese winemaking," praising their impressive quality, complexity, and depth of flavor.
Experience Mulando Wines
Through Vinodelice, wine enthusiasts can experience Wang's artistry firsthand by tasting her wines in our discovery box. Each bottle tells a story of tradition, innovation, and feminine strength, representing not just a wine but a bridge between cultures and a testament to the power of believing in the impossible.
