Winemaker Notes
Sourced entirely from the Brancaia in Maremma estate vineyard, ILATRAIA is a full expression of this spectacular site. Characterized by desirable density and finesse, this complex blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc is dominated by layered dark fruit and spice notes including aniseed and blackberry. Backed by fine-grained, silky tannins, these notes give way to supple fullness on the palate as well as notes of violets, mineral and toast. With a signature lengthy finish, this wine is crafted exclusively from grapes ripened without irrigation.
Located just a few miles from the Mediterranean coastline, the rugged Brancaia in Maremma sits at the foothills of the Uccellina Mountains. This site, which has a west-southwest exposure, is temperate and made up of mostly sandy clay soils.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Dense and tightly wound, with a beam of black cherry and blueberry fruit. Cedar, smoke, tar and tobacco notes add nuance, giving this a complex impression overall. Balanced and long, with a compact finish that should expand as this integrates more fully. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2018 through 2032. 3,750 cases imported.
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James Suckling
Plenty of blueberry, chocolate and light toasted oak character. Smoky meat, too. Full body, chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs a year or two to come together.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2012 Ilatraia is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Petit Verdot and 20% Cabernet Franc that sees an 18-month oak regime with new and used barrique. This is a massive wine that smiles bright with Tuscan sunshine. Its appearance is dark and dense and the bouquet peels back with thick layers of black fruit and integrated spice. The tannins are supple, soft and seamless.
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Wine Enthusiast
Made from 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Petit Verdot and 20% Cabernet Franc, this has inviting aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, forest floor and a whiff of cedar. The dense, polished palate delivers ripe black cherry, clove, licorice and tobacco. Firm, refined tannins provide support.
Legendary in Italy for its Renaissance art and striking landscape, Tuscany is also home to many of the country’s best red wines. Sangiovese reigns supreme here, as either the single varietal, or a dominant player, in almost all of Tuscany’s best.
A remarkable Chianti, named for its region of origin, will have a bright acidity, supple tannins and plenty of cherry fruit character. From the hills and valleys surrounding the medieval village of Montalcino, come the distinguished and age-worthy wines based on Brunello (Sangiovese). Earning global acclaim since the 1970s, the Tuscan Blends are composed solely of international grape varieties or a mix of international and Sangiovese. The wine called Vine Nobile di Montepulciano, composed of Prognolo Gentile (Sangiovese) and is recognized both for finesse and power.