A super Tuscan wine with a rare complexity and the expressiveness of a great vintage
The estate
The Frescobaldi family, a Florentine dynasty devoted to the production of Tuscan wines, has been established in this historic land for over 1000 years. Its influence grew considerably during the period of the Republic of Florence, when the city's banking industry developed. In particular, the family was involved in the great works of the time, such as the Santa Trinita Bridge and the Santo Spirito Basilica. Located in the Montalcino area, southwest of the medieval city, Frescobaldi - Tenuta Luce della Vite is one of the family's estates that produces some of the greatest wines of Tuscany and of Italy.
The vineyard
Tenuta Luce della Vite stretches across 192 hectares land, of which 55 are planted with vines, with an average density of 6,100 vines per hectare. With an altitude of between 350 and 420 metres above sea level, the estate has one of the highest vineyards in the area.
The soil is rich in pebbles and sediments but lacking in organic matter. Combined with a good exposure on the southern slope, these are ideal conditions for producing great Sangiovese with slow grape ripening. The lower part of the vineyard, on the clay soils, is where the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are planted.
The wine
The iconic Super Tuscan Luce 2017 from Tenuta Luce della Vite is the result of a collaboration between the Marchesi de Frescobaldi family and Robert Mondavi. Their collaboration set the ambition to create a wine produced in IGT Toscana that combines the roundness of Merlot with the structure and elegance of Sangiovese from the lands of Brunello di Montalcino. A symbol of tradition and modernity, Luce embodies the excellence of the great Super Tuscans that appeared in the Tuscany region of Italy in the 1970s.
The vintage
In line with 2016, the weather influence was once again decisive for the character and specifics of this 2017 vintage. A cool, rainy spring allowed the clay soils, the best soil for Merlot, to guarantee sufficient water reserves. The optimal summer conditions of heat and sunshine combined with sufficient rainfall allowed the grapes to reach perfect maturity.
Blend
Sangiovese
Merlot
Characteristics and tasting tips for Luce 2017 from Frescobaldi - Tenuta Luce della Vite
Tasting
Colour
This wine has a very intense ruby red.
Nose
Luce 2017 shows off a rare complexity. The nose allures with a harmonious blend of red fruit scents, and incense and roasted notes.
Palate
The palate is characterised as much by its gorgeous aromatic palette as its fine tannins and well-balanced structure, perfectly highlighting the complexity and potential of this great quality wine.