Luce 2004 appears deep ruby with lovely purple highlights. Subtle suggestions of toasty oak appear first on the nose, over fragrant notes of blueberry and blackberry that seem to infuse the background; next to emerge is a complex of floral and mint nuances, followed by smooth impressions of vanilla and cinnamon. The palate is smooth and mouthfilling, with velvety tannins and a warm alcohol beautifully complemented by a crisp acidity. The finish is expansive and dynamic. Varietal Composition: 60% Merlot, 40% Sangiovese

Wine maker notes

2004 The 2004 vintage was excellent both in terms of quality and quantity. The cool and rainy spring allowed for the replenishing of the underground waterways and led to the vegetative delay and thus budding a week later than usual. In May and June, the nights were cold with temperatures below average and the notable difference in temperature between day and night allowed the grapes to develop outstanding aromas. The heat during August and September compensated somewhat for the initial delay in the vegetative cycle. The sun and north wind at the beginning of September, together with the cool nights, helped in the production of elegant and very concentrated wines, with tannins that matured gradually over the course of the growing season. The harvesting of the Merlot began slightly later than usual and the grapes were healthy and perfectly ripe. The climatic conditions during the harvest of the Sangiovese were ideal, and the grapes arrived at the winery in excellent condition.

Other text

Luce was the first wine ever produced in Montalcino by blending Sangiovese and Merlot grapes. Combining the roundness and suppleness of Merlot with the structure and elegance of Sangiovese seems an obvious idea, but it took two well established winemakers, Lamberto Frescobaldi and Tim Mondavi, to do that in the land of the world renowned Brunello di Montalcino, a wine made strictly from 100% Sangiovese.