2020 Zaxee 2300 Cabernet Sauvignon

The Zaxee 2300 Cabernet Sauvignon is actually from Yunnan province and is produced by Zaxee Winery located in the Himalayan foothills near Shangri-La. This is where we see the rawest, unpolished form of Himalayan terroir - where ripe Cabernet Sauvignon from schist and basalt gravels are spontaneously fermented, then aged long in clay amphoras. This preserves the vivacity and energy, inviting you to immerse in the rugged, howling landscape, wherever you may be.
Grown with local Tibetan farmers using natural methods including yak dung fertilizer. Grapes are hand harvested at an extreme height of 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) above sea level. Spontaneously fermented and aged without oak in large clay amphora urns (reminiscent of traditional Chinese baijiu vessels) to preserve pure fruit vibrancy.
Zaxee is a small boutique winery located within a deep mountain valley in Benzilan, a village one hour north of Shangrila. The name of the winery derives from the Tibetan word བ་ཤིས, which has connotations of good fortune and blessings as is seen in the Tibetan script on the label. While the region’s peaks rise over 5500 meters (18,044 ft.) above sea level, Zaxee is uniquely nestled deep within a rugged valley at 2500 meters (8202 ft.) above sea level. The valley creates a mild climate that rarely drops below freezing, yet glaciated peaks can be seen in all directions. It’s also a combination of some of the lowest latitude – highest altitude wines you’ll find in the world.
“Yunnan is still a relatively young wine region, compared to old-world regions like Bordeaux in France, or even Napa Valley in California. Nonetheless, my dream is to make a Chinese wine that goes toe-to-toe with any fine wine from those old-world regions. I want to make a wine that reflects the unique terroir and culture of this region; something that can only be made here.” – Mr. Quan, Chief Vintner as Zaxee Winery.  
“I hope that the wine we make at Zaxee can bring joy and happiness to everyone that drinks it, especially those going through hard times in their life.” – Mrs. Lu, Founder of Zaxee Winery.
Tasting Note:  Mid ruby-garnet. Fantastic, complex, layered aromas – deep, ripe blackcurrants, cassis and dark plums, damsons, interspersed with mint and a stony, mineral impression. Violets, too, as it opens. Untamed purity that reflects its origins well. Deep and energetic on the palate, with mouth-coating fine tannins – maybe just needs a little more time – and a wonderful vein of acidity carrying the palate. Great length, underpinned by the mineral character. It reminds me slightly of the Douro spliced with Argentina’s Salta. A great find of real purity and character.  
17/20 Jancisrobinson.com
Food match: Stir-fried chilli ribeye beef.                                                                             
Drink Now – 2035