Illico

Illico by Ab Initio is a natural red wine made in Loire with Grenache and Syrah grapes, which we presume come from outside the Loire and are brought in and vinified there, as not so common to see such grapes in Loire.

Production details of Illico: Illico is made by Emmanuel Roblin, working alongside Fred and Claire Niger of Domaine de l'Ecu under the Ab Initio label in the Loire. The Syrah and Grenache come from the Rhône Valley, sourced from farms working without synthetic chemistry. The wine is vinified in a mix of steel, concrete and amphora, with most ageing in amphora to soften tannins and add complexity. Minimal intervention throughout.

Tasting Notes: We have not yet tried this vintage of Illico by Ab Initio, but we hear it has notes of red plum, black cherry, dried herbs and a soft amphora-rounded texture.