Nose
Illuminatus is a classic Sangiovese from head to toe. A nose full of flowers, wild cherry, blueberry and cassis.
Palate
Luscious and vibrant on entry with explosive red fruit, violet and mineral. The acidity is lively and juicy, and gives way to a full body and soft, supple tannins. Finishes long and clean. Drink now through 2017.
Growing Conditions
The White Hawk Vineyard is farmed using sustainable and primarily organic viticulture methods. It sits on the southern facing slope of Cat Canyon, some 21 miles from the Pacific and 2 miles north of the town of Los Alamos. Because of its proximity to the coast, the marine influence causes cool, early morning fogs to envelop the site before giving way to the warm California sunshine. The vineyard is planted at an elevation of 900 feet on sandy soils that immediately drain off water and nutrients, forcing the vines to work extra hard to survive. The fruit is wonderfully dark with notes of sweet strawberry and plum. The yields are miniscule and the berries intense.
Aging
This wine was aged 18 months in 2 year old French cooperage.
