The Wine Advocate | RP 91
Published: Jan 13, 2022
Drink: 2022-2027

Helan Qingxue’s 2017 Jiabeilan Reserve is, as in other vintages, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and has a deep ruby appearance. On the nose, there is plenty of dark, somewhat brooding, black fruit—cassis, bramble, black cherry—with some leafy herbaceous character and distinct new oak notes of clove, toast, smoke and vanilla (the 2017 saw 14 months in small-format new French oak). On the palate, the 2017 Jiabeilan Reserve is full-bodied with notable 14.5% alcohol—although this is better integrated here than in the 2016 vintage—with some supporting acidity and marked chewy and coating tannins. The core of fruit is better defined in the 2017 as well, complemented by distinct new oak and some leafiness. With its moderate length, the 2017 is approachable but should show even more promisingly from 2022 onward. 

Jamessuckling.com | JS 93
Published: Nov 19, 2020

Complex, focused and classy nose. Cedar, cocoa powder and fresh blackcurrant, on a nice layer of tree bark and tomato leaf, connecting freshness with fine ripeness. The smooth, firm tannin structure gives a nicely chewy texture that props up the mid-palate concentration. Medium to full body with real restraint! Good potential. 100% cabernet sauvignon. This is beautiful now, but will shine after 2 to 3 years' aging. It might even close down for a time before that future date. So drink now or wait until 2023.