Ilia Estate Taoba Saperavi

General Information

Ilia Estate Taoba Saperavi is an impressive red wine from the Kakheti region, the heart of Georgian wine culture. This wine is the result of a collaboration between Vano Shukashvili, one of the country’s most renowned winemakers, and Swiss oenologist Thierry Fontannaz. Their shared passion for natural vinification and innovation led to the creation of Taoba – a wine where tradition and modern craftsmanship come together.

The wine is vinified in qvevri and then aged in a combination of small French and American oak barrels. This double aging adds structure, roundness, and complexity, while preserving the character of the Saperavi grape.

Tasting Profile of Ilia Estate Taoba Saperavi

The wine has a deep ruby color.

• Aroma: blackcurrant, cherry, violets, black pepper, vanilla, and dark chocolate

• Taste: powerful, juicy, and spicy, with firm tannins and lively acidity. Velvety mouthfeel with notes of ripe dark fruit, wood, and spices

• Finish: long, structured, and elegant, with a warm spicy finale

Serving Advice

Preferably pair this wine with:

• Roasted lamb or entrecôte

• Aged cheeses such as Comté or Gruyère

• Caramelized vegetable dishes or stews with spices

Serve at 16–18°C. Decant recommended.

Did You Know

The name “Taoba” means “generation” in Georgian – a tribute to the passing down of knowledge and tradition. For this wine, Saperavi grapes are selected from Napareuli, fermented in 1,000-liter qvevris, followed by aging in 225-liter barrels made of French and American oak. This results in a wine that is deeply rooted in the Georgian soil yet internationally stylish – with structure, strength, and finesse in one bottle.