Fei Tswei | East Helan Mountains, Ningxia
Nestled in the heart of Helan Mountain’s eastern foothills in Ningxia, FeiTswei is like a piece of jade embedded in nature, embodying the essence of the earth and the wisdom of its craftsmen. The winery spans 100 acres, with 1,200 acres of vineyards, 56 acres of experimental planting areas, and 20 acres of organic compost zones, all built to strict organic ecological standards.
The winery cultivates 11 grape varieties for production and 26 experimental varieties. The vineyards are divided into 17 plots based on variety and micro-environment, each reflecting the unique terroir of the land. Located in the middle of the Helan Mountain alluvial fan, the FeiTswei estate sits at an altitude ranging from 1,159 to 1,147 meters, with moderate slopes. The soil, primarily composed of gravel and sandy loam, is poor in nutrients but ideal for viticulture due to its balanced gravel content, which ensures good drainage and water retention. This allows grape roots to grow deep, absorbing abundant mineral elements. The gravel also enhances soil heat retention, promoting better grape ripening and richer flavors.
FeiTswei seamlessly blends nature and technology, striving to produce wines that truly express the terroir of Helan Mountain. Each bottle is a tribute to the land and a testament to the winemaker’s dedication. Here, wine is not just a delight for the palate but also a celebration of the harmony between humans and nature.
Wines
FeiTswei, ‘Magma’ Chardonnay 2021 ●
The grapes are hand har vested, then undergo whole-bunch gentle pressing at low temperature in air bladders. The juice is clarified at low temperature, which retains the fruity aromas to a greater extent. The clear juice is fermented at strictly controlled low temperature. Selected yeast further enhances the wine’s aromatic profile.
Chardonnay| 750 ml | 13.0% abv
FeiTswei, ‘Magma’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 ●
Cold maceration ensures the colours and aromatics of each variety are well preserved. Low temperature is maintained for the entire fermentation process, combined with various circulation processes to ensure smooth and continuous fermentation, whilst retaining the volatile esters in the wine. Post fermentation maceration is carefully calibrated to fully extract the tannins and polyphenols from the cap. Aged for 8 months in oak barrels, 6 months in bottle.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec | 750 ml | 14.5% abv
From left to right: amphora Chardonnay, Suyan Chardonnay, Jingfan Chardonnay, macerated Chardonnay, not sure what that is, 2560 Cabernet. Yes, Quan likes to experiment.