Hongshan's orchards come alive in summer

Hongshan produces a variety of grapes. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxixqly]

For more than three decades, Hongshan in Xinwu district, Wuxi, has been cultivating a thriving grape industry. What began as a local specialty has grown into more than 167 hectares of vineyards, producing around 2,400 metric tons of grapes each year.

With fertile soil and abundant water, Hongshan offers ideal conditions for growing a wide variety of fruit. Among its star grapes is Summer Black, one of the earliest varieties to hit the market. Seedless, juicy and bursting with sweetness, it is at its best from mid-July through late August.

Kyoho grapes arrive from late July, known for their generous size and satisfying balance of sweetness and acidity. Shine Muscat follows with its floral aroma and high sweetness, while Zuijinxiang grapes, which enter the market in early August, are prized for their subtle wine-like fragrance.

But grapes are far from the only reason to visit Hongshan in summer. Its signature Cuiguan pears are also entering their peak harvest season. With a delicate, thin skin that reveals their snow-white interior, these fruits have a satisfying crispness when bitten into. Their juicy texture releases a burst of flavor with a refreshing and genuine sweetness.

Cuiguan pears. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxixqly]

Other varieties, including fragrant Huangjin pears and the large, soft-textured Qiuyue pears, extend the fruit season and offer something for every palate.