At a glance

Producer

Tenuta Luce della Vite

Region

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$90

Tasting profile

Red cherry, ripe plum, leather, tobacco, balsamic herbs, underbrush

Evolution: Will gain complexity with notes of dried fruit, forest floor, sweet spices, and truffle over the next decade

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit, earth, and mature savory notes with silky tannins and bright acidity

Structure

Acidity

High, balanced, vibrant

Tannins

Firm, well-structured, fine-grained

Alcohol

14.5% ABV (typical for this wine)

Aging potential

20-25+ years from vintage (2016), strong structure supports long-term aging

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2029 to 2053

Optimal window

2026 to 2056

Current status

Approaching early maturity with excellent aging potential

Current condition

Complex with developing tertiary notes; still vibrant acidity and firm tannins

The 2016 vintage in Montalcino was excellent, combining ripe fruit with firm tannins and vibrant acidity. The high-quality Sangiovese grapes and careful organic viticulture give this wine longevity, with a development curve typically spanning 20-25 years. Peak drinking aligns with the wine's gradual harmonization of tannins and tertiary aromatics.

Food pairing

Grilled red meats, wild game, aged pecorino cheese, hearty risottos, and mushroom dishes complement the wine’s structure and earthiness.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Young tannins benefit from oxygen to soften; enhances aromatic complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Sustainable farming focusing on organic viticulture, minimal interventions, use of renewable resources, water conservation, and reduced chemical inputs. Packaging uses eco-friendly materials where possible.

Tenuta Luce della Vite's commitment to organic farming and sustainable viticulture practices significantly reduce environmental impact compared to conventional methods. While export to global markets increases carbon footprint, their investment in renewable energy and water conservation mitigates overall footprint, earning a solid sustainability score.