Wow. The 2013 Ilatraia jumps right out at you. This is a tremendous effort - I tasted this wine three times blind and it always came out on top. Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) is blended with Petit Verdot (40%) and Cabernet Franc (20%). The complexity and the ever-changing nature of the bouquet is mind-bending. Ilatraia shows enormous depth and sophistication, and it leaves a profound impact. The wine sports deep color saturation with brilliant flashes of dark ruby. The texture is immensely soft, yielding and seamless in its integration. Dark fruit and blackberry is followed by light notes of tobacco, toasted nut and scorched earth. I am in awe of its complexity.

This bright version combines black cherry, plum, spice, iron and tobacco flavors. The stiff, dusty tannins gain the upper hand for now, but this should develop nicely. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2019 through 2028. 1,500 cases imported.

Made with 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Petit Verdot and 20% Cabernet Franc, this opens with aromas of mature black-skinned fruit, sunbaked earth and a whiff of cedar. The concentrated, polished palate delivers juicy black cherry, grilled herb, clove and tobacco. Firm velvety tannins provide support.