The Bordeaux side of the Parabellum series, the 2017 Parabellum Alluvio is based on 60% Cabernet Franc, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the final 7% Petit Verdot. This deep ruby/plum-hued effort offers lots of chocolate laced red and black fruits, smoked earth, tobacco leaf, and truffle notes. Full-bodied, rich, and nicely textured, it has some background oak that should integrate with 3-4 years of bottle age, and it’s going to have a 15-year or longer drink window.

(91 - 93 points) A blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, the 2017 Parabellum Alluvio begins with dusty red and black fruit preserves, with a sophisticated soft herbal edge to the nose. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, the wine is a little broader, expanding across the mid-palate and unfolding its wings to show a focused wine with structuring tannins. The finish lingers with a mineral expression and kiss of alcohol on the aftertaste. By the time this is officially released, the soft herbal tones may minimize their presence in the wine. Only 290 cases made.- AM