The 2015 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva Zanna explodes from the glass with a seductive mix of crushed blackberries and Marasca cherries, infused with exotic brown spices, notes of rosemary and shaved cedar. Silky textures coat the palate, yet they are quickly contrasted by tart wild berry fruits and minerals as brisk acids tug at the cheeks. This The Zanna closes long and structured, clenching the senses in grippy tannin, while blue and purple-toned fruits and florals linger. The 2015 needs at least a few years of cellaring to help ease its tannic clout, at which point it should be a stellar rendition of Illuminati's Zanna.

Savory hints of tarry smoke and bresaola underscore crème de cassis and herbed black olive flavors in this sleek and well-knit medium-bodied red. Taut tannins firm the finish, where a tang of iron and ground anise notes linger. Drink now through 2026.

Aromas of crushed herbs and spiced cherry show a pleasing depth on the nose. Medium in weight, the palate brings juicy red cherry, tobacco and earth, with slightly sandy tannins rising up on the finish. Sourced from a single vineyard in the Colline Teramane DOCG, it shows very good vibrancy and concentration.