Legacy Peak Sense of Xixia N°3 2021

Winery Background and History: Established in the early 2000s, Legacy Peak is a family-owned winery located in the Helan Mountain region of Ningxia, China. The winery is dedicated to producing premium wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. By combining traditional viticulture practices with modern winemaking techniques, Legacy Peak has gained recognition both domestically and internationally for its high-quality wines.

Producer and Winemaker: The winery is managed by the founding family, who oversee all aspects of production. The winemaking team, led by a head winemaker with extensive experience in both Chinese and international wineries, is committed to crafting wines that express the distinct characteristics of the Helan Mountain terroir. Their hands-on approach ensures meticulous attention to detail from vineyard management to the final bottling process.

Vineyards and Microclimate: Legacy Peak’s vineyards are nestled at the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountain range in Ningxia. This region offers a unique microclimate with long sunshine hours, significant diurnal temperature variations, and minimal rainfall. The well-drained, sandy loam soils contribute to the cultivation of healthy vines, allowing grapes to develop concentrated flavors and balanced acidity, essential for producing high-quality wines.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used: While specific details about the grape composition of Sense of Xixia N°3 2021 are not readily available, Legacy Peak typically focuses on Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Gernischt.

Vinification & Aging Methods: The winemaking process at Legacy Peak involves hand-harvesting grapes at optimal ripeness, followed by careful sorting. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity of fruit flavors. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for a period that enhances complexity and imparts subtle oak nuances, resulting in a well-structured and balanced wine.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume): Approximately 13.5%

Tasting Notes: Legacy Peak’s Sense of Xixia N°3 2021 presents a deep garnet color in the glass. The nose offers an inviting bouquet of dark berries, plum, and hints of spice and cedar. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with flavors of blackcurrant, ripe cherry, and subtle notes of vanilla and tobacco. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth texture and a lingering, elegant finish.

Food & Wine Pairing: This wine pairs exceptionally well with rich dishes such as roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, and hearty stews. Its robust structure complements grilled meats and game, while the wine’s acidity balances well with tomato-based sauces and aged cheeses. For a regional pairing, consider enjoying it alongside Chinese braised pork or Peking duck to enhance the dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures: To fully appreciate the complexities of Sense of Xixia N°3 2021, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving allows it to aerate, releasing its full aromatic potential. Using large, Bordeaux-style wine glasses will help concentrate the aromas and guide the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate.

Storage and Aging Potential: When stored in optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature of 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F), and with controlled humidity—Sense of Xixia N°3 2021 has the potential to age gracefully for 5 to 8 years. Over time, the wine is expected to develop additional layers of complexity, with tertiary flavors such as leather, dried fruit, and earthy notes emerging, offering an enhanced tasting experience.