2018 Brancaia Ilatraia Maremma Toscana
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This is a seriously gorgeous wine, seriously. The Brancaia 2018 Ilatraia is 40% Petit Verdot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, and it impresses from the start, thanks to the wonderful intensity and clarity of its dark fruit, spice and delicately toasted aromas. This full-bodied wine does a terrific job of presenting an Italian or clearly Mediterranean side of the blend with rosemary, dried lavender bud and some of the warm earthy aromas that remind me of walking through a grove of chestnut trees in the fall. This offers a twofold punch of power and elegance. 40,000 bottles were released.
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James Suckling
James Suckling
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The 2018 Ilatraia is a heady, potent wine that captures all of the natural density of Maremma. A blast of black plum fruit, chocolate, dried herbs, licorice and copious French oak lends notable exuberance. Ilatraia doesn't quite have the open-knit charm of most Bolgheri reds, likely because of the booming structure of Petit Verdot and its formidable tannic clout. Even so, there is plenty to like, especially for readers who enjoy big Tuscan wines.
Blackberries and currants with some violet and walnut undertones. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins that show balance and focus. Stone and mahogany. Just a hint of chocolate. Racy and fine. 40% petit verdot, 40% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc. Drink now or hold.
This is really impressive with a dense and intense palate, yet ever so polished and refined. Full body. Compact and extremely long. Love the texture.