Kanaan Winery Black Beauty Ningxia 2018

Winery Background and History

Kanaan Winery was founded in 2011 by Wang Fang, affectionately known as “Crazy Fang,” in Ningxia’s Helan Mountain East Foothills. The name “Kanaan” means “land of milk and honey,” symbolizing Fang’s belief in Ningxia’s potential as a world-class wine region. Despite harsh winters that require vine burial, the winery has quickly gained international acclaim for its high-quality wines—especially Cabernet Sauvignon-led blends. By combining sustainable viticulture with modern winemaking techniques, Kanaan has become a leader in shaping China’s premium wine narrative and elevating the reputation of Ningxia’s terroir on the global stage.

Producer and Wine Maker

Wang Fang, known for her bold personality and pioneering spirit, returned from Germany to establish Kanaan Winery. With no fear of challenging norms, she embraced Ningxia’s rugged terrain and invested in premium wine production. Collaborating with consultant winemaker Zhou Shuzhen, Wang Fang emphasizes low yields and meticulous vineyard management. Her goal is to produce elegant yet powerful wines that reflect the Helan Mountain terroir. The duo’s shared focus on precision and innovation in both vineyard and cellar results in wines of character and international quality, pushing the boundaries of Chinese fine wine.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Black Beauty’s grapes are sourced from contract vineyards located at approximately 1,200 meters elevation in Ningxia’s Helan Mountain East Foothills. The soils are predominantly clay with gravel layers, offering excellent drainage and mineral balance. The 2018 growing season was unusually cool and wet, with rainfall reaching around 490mm—higher than average. This extended the ripening period, enhancing flavor complexity while preserving acidity. Though challenging, the season allowed for slower phenolic development. The strong diurnal temperature variation helped maintain freshness and contributed to finely structured tannins and aromatic depth in the final wine.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2018 Black Beauty is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. Grapes were hand-harvested at night to retain freshness, then gently destemmed and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Fermentation was followed by aging in French oak barrels for approximately 18 to 24 months, with a portion of new oak used to enhance texture and complexity. Regular bâtonnage was applied to build structure and richness. Only select barrels were blended to create the final cuvée, resulting in a wine of depth, precision, and balanced oak integration.

Tasting Notes

This wine shows a deep garnet color with ruby edges. The nose opens with lifted aromas of black cherry, violet, crushed stone, and subtle wood spice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with refined structure. Flavors of cherry compote, blackberry, blueberry, and hints of dried herbs unfold in layers. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, balanced by fresh acidity. A touch of graphite and tobacco lingers on the long, smooth finish. This vintage exhibits both elegance and power, reflecting Ningxia’s cool-climate style and the precision of its winemaking.

Food & Wine Pairing

Black Beauty 2018 pairs beautifully with red meat dishes such as grilled lamb chops, beef tenderloin, or braised oxtail. Its refined tannins and bright fruit also complement roasted duck or soy-based Asian braises. For cheese lovers, it matches well with aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or aged Cheddar. It can also stand up to umami-rich mushroom dishes, truffle risottos, or hearty lentil stews. The wine’s structure and aromatic intensity allow it to elevate dishes with bold, savory profiles, making it ideal for fine dining and rich, slow-cooked cuisine.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to allow the wine to reveal its full aromatic complexity and textural elegance. Decanting for 1–2 hours before serving is highly recommended to soften the tannins and open up the bouquet. Use large, tulip-shaped Bordeaux-style glasses to concentrate the aromas and allow for a complete sensory experience. Avoid serving too cold, which can mute the nuances, or too warm, which may over-accentuate the alcohol. For optimal enjoyment, allow the wine to evolve in the glass, appreciating its changing layers as it breathes.

Storage and Aging Potential

Kanaan Black Beauty 2018 has the structure and balance to cellar gracefully for 8 to 10 years. Under optimal conditions—cool (12–15°C), dark, with 70% humidity—it will evolve to reveal more tertiary notes like leather, dried plum, and cigar box. While already enjoyable, aging will enhance its complexity and round out its tannins. Bottles should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist. If consuming young, decanting is advised to simulate bottle aging. Best enjoyed between now and 2028, but potentially longer for those preferring more mature expressions.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%

Scores

• James Suckling: 93