Ilya Vineyards

Ilya Vineyards is located in Kuitpo, a unofficial subregion of the Hills marked by ironstone soils. The site was purchased in ’97 by Paul and Sharon Bushell with the aim of making cool-climate wines from estate-grown fruit. The culture here is one of an understated restraint. A calm composure. The comprehension that while nature’s whimsies can be honed to an extent, they will ultimately usurp excessive winemaking or vineyard (mis)management. Subsequently, the wines are mid-weighted, judiciously oaked, impeccably balanced and delicious to drink. These are the sort of wines that reflect a steady hand and a good place to grow grapes, stimulating the intellect without getting in the way of conversation. -NED GOODWIN MW