Illumina Tannat 2018

Although unknown to many Americans, especially as a single varietal wine, Tannat is a high-color and high-tannin variety originating from Southwest France that has traditionally been used for blending. Aligning well to our highly fragrant style of winemaking here at Inwood, the grape has risen in popularity in recent decades as a stand-alone varietal for its tasting and fragrance profile that many liken to a dark Malbec. The likeness to Malbec stems from both varietals sharing a hefty quantity of flavor molecules commonly found in the truffle mushroom, which imparts discernibly earthy layers across Tannat’s black cherry fruit base.

Our 2017 vintage was farmed at 2 tons per acre in Gillespie County for a wonderfully thick flavor concentration. A touch of zesty tannins render an uplifting finish to this dark, bold dry red. Ready to drink immediately, our 2017 Tannat should continue to improve through 2022, with safe cellaring for an additional three years (through 2025). Tannats pair best with heavy protein and rich fat, so aside from the ever-obvious marbled cuts of beef steak, consider game meats or fowl, barbecued ribs or sausage, and meat-based stews.