How China Almost Became the Worlds Wine Superpower

Long before the vineyards of Bordeaux or Tuscany became global icons, the origins of wine were already taking shape in ancient China. Around 7,000–9,000 years ago, early civilizations were fermenting a primitive but sophisticated blend of rice, honey, and fruit—discovered in the archaeological site of Jiahu. This wasn’t just a drink; it was ritual, medicin …