By Zhao Yu

As the wine grape harvest season approaches, Jia Weizhong, head of Shuangyangu Ecological Farm in Fenghua, Ningbo, is busier than ever. From inspecting grape growth and recruiting seasonal pickers to overseeing wine-making equipment and connecting with enthusiasts, the agricultural entrepreneur has little time to rest.

After years working outside the region, Jia returned to his hometown in 2015 to launch a new venture with his wife Chen Xiaoping, contracting barren hills in Qiaopeng Village to trial wine grape cultivation. A decade later, their efforts have transformed 79 hectares of once-neglected land into thriving vineyards. The farm is now designated as a municipal-level Grape Efficient Ecological Planting Standardized Demonstration Zone.

"Previously, these hills were overgrown with weeds and shrubs. Over the past ten years, we have reclaimed the land and expanded the vineyard to about 79 hectares," said Chen. Despite the poor soil, the mountains' ample sunlight makes them ideal for grape cultivation.

Since 2015, Jia and Chen have sought advice from experts at the Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences and other institutions, accumulating substantial expertise in vineyard management. "After harvesting, branches must not be pruned immediately; waiting for the sap to return ensures next year's grapes are nutrient-rich. During the rainy season, careful attention is needed to prevent fungal infections," Jia explained.

Turning grapes into quality wine required further investment. Since 2016, the couple has invested over 5 million yuan in modern wine production equipment, gradually establishing a presence in the region's wine market. Shuangyangu now produces four varieties: dry red, dry white, brandy, and semi-sweet, supported by a well-equipped wine-making workshop and a 400-square-meter cellar.

The farm has brought economic benefits to the local community. More than 30 villagers work at the farm, and last year residents of Qiaopeng Village earned nearly 500,000 yuan in land rents and farm wages. "After the farm was established, Mr. Jia provided jobs for everyone, and villagers received stable incomes from land rents," said Chen Shijie, a local villager who earned over 20,000 yuan part-time last year.

Looking ahead, Jia hopes to bring Ningbo's high-quality wine to international markets. Next year, Shuangyangu Ecological Farm plans to expand exports to Southeast Asia and Africa, aiming to grow both the brand and prosperity for local villagers.