Desert oasis

The underground cellar of Chateau Hansen is home to some of the city’s best wines. Wang Kaihao / China Daily

The city boasts many different cultures, and Mongolian traditions only make up a small part of Wuhai's rich cultural mix. Migrants transplant customs from their homelands here. Ballads and music from different regions throughout the country can be found in the city.

It is greatly beneficial for me, because I am able to enjoy different styles of food within a couple of days.

A local man pulls his catch out of the lake in Jinshawan, a popular tourist site in Wuhai. Wang Kaihao / China Daily

However, no matter which cultural background locals come from, they share an affection for one important thing: wine.

Wuhai's climate is ideal for growing grapes. Many migrants brought grape seedlings when they moved to the area, and a grape trellis was a must-have in local backyards in the 1960s and '70s.

After a short trip to the newly built Wuhai Wine Museum — a three-story building in the shape of a grape — I go to the Chateau Hansen vineyard in the north of the city.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot are major varieties, but they are combined with some local breeds to better handle the sandy soil.

On a scorching summer day, it is relaxing to wander around the underground wine cellar and taste some local specialties.

Hundreds of oak barrels imported from France contain not only fine wine, but also the collective memory of the people of Wuhai.

I am an amateur drinker, but I cannot help taking just one more sip.

After trying these top-tier wine, I decide to look for the best fish in town.

The Yellow River provides Wuhai with abundant fresh fish, which is uncommon in China's Northwestern cities.

I have a surprising discovery on the way to a fishing village by the river.