Wine Experience: Exclusive Wine Collection

Captivated by the cosmos, the ancient Mayan sages of the Yucatán Peninsula gazed skyward, their keen observations and insights giving rise to a cosmological calendar that captured nature’s cycles. “Japa Chi,” meaning “Open the mouth,” symbolizes the essence of transformation, a turning point and the beginning of a new cycle. Each glass of Japa Chi is a portal to renewal, inviting you to embark on a personal journey.

Just as the Mayans once observed the skies with awe and reverence, our wine label celebrates the start of a new cycle a call to release fear, embrace transformation, and explore the unknown. This spirit is infused into every wine crafted by our house.

Created exclusively for Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, Japa Chi is a unique Mexican wine, a testament to the spirit of the Maya born in the Valle de San Vicente, Baja California. In collaboration with Laura Chiapella, Altotinto winery, and the ambitious Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya team, we present the six masterpieces that form our Japa Chi collection.

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Japa Chi: The Essence of Transformation

The Japa Chi I and II collections draw inspiration from the Ceiba, the sacred Mayan tree, revered as a spiritual bridge connecting celestial, earthly, and underworld realms. Today, the Ceiba remains a focal point for rituals and a symbol of wisdom, a cultural icon preserved and honored by the Maya.

Japa Chi I, 2020. Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc, Baja California

Limited to 75 cases, this blend features 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and two Cabernet Franc barrels (30% and 20%), each with unique characteristics. Aged in French oak barrels for 14 months and then bottle-aged for six, it offers a cellaring potential of at least 10 years.

Japa Chi II, 2020. Nebbiolo-Malbec-Cabernet Franc, Baja California

Limited to 75 cases, this blend comprises 80% Nebbiolo, 10% Malbec, and 10% Cabernet Franc. Aged in French oak for 14 months and bottle-aged for six, it also has a minimum aging potential of 10 years.

Japa Chi and the Aluxes

Japa Chi III and IV are inspired by the Aluxes, spirited protectors of nature in Mayan mythology. These mischievous, diminutive figures are seen as allies when respected, yet they may cause trouble if ignored. Honoring their presence, we reflect this playful reverence in the creation of these wines.

Japa Chi III, 2020. Cabernet Sauvignon-Nebbiolo, Baja California

Limited to 420 cases, this equal blend of Nebbiolo and Cabernet Sauvignon is aged in American oak barrels for 12 months, followed by six months in the bottle, with a cellaring potential of at least eight years.

Japa Chi IV, 2021. Syrah-Merlot, Baja California

Limited to 840 cases, this blend combines 60% Syrah and 40% Merlot. Aged in American oak for 12 months and bottle-aged for six, it has an aging potential of eight years minimum.

Japa Chi Premium Selection

Our Japa Chi V and Japa Chi Saak represent the pinnacle of our collection, crafted in partnership with renowned winemaker Jesús Rivera and El Cielo winery.

Japa Chi V, 2020/2019. Malbec-Merlot, Baja California

Limited to 80 cases, this blend of 85% Malbec (2020) and 15% Merlot (2019) from Valle de Guadalupe is aged for 20 months in new French oak barrels, offering an exceptional aging potential of at least 15 years.

Japa Chi Saak, 2017-2022. Sauvignon Blanc-Moscato, Baja California

Limited to 160 cases, this blend combines 95% Sauvignon Blanc (2017-2022), aged in 1,000-liter French oak foudres, and 5% Moscato (2022) from Valle de Guadalupe.

Immerse yourself in the essence of Japa Chi and become part of a journey where each wine weaves a story of transformation, legacy, and a deep connection to the Mayan culture.

Aaron Alvarez

Aarón Alvarez Arellano, originally from Mexico City, brings 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, spanning the Riviera Maya and international cruises. For the past 15 years, he has dedicated himself to the world of wine as a sommelier, cultivating his expertise through mentorships and training. This experience has fostered a deep passion for his profession.

As a member of a second-generation hotelier family, Aarón inherited valuable traits: sales skills from his mother, who worked in timeshares, and discipline from his father, who held key positions in renowned hotels. Aarón has garnered significant recognition for his achievements, including two gold medals at the Mexico Selection by CMB and being named one of the top 9 sommeliers in Latin America to collaborate with by Sommelier Business.

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