Frescobaldi - Tenuta Luce della Vite : Lux Vitis 2016

The signature of Frescobaldi in a great Tuscan wine which combines power and elegance

The estate

A great Florentine family dedicated to the production of Tuscan wines, the Frescobaldis have been established on this historical territory for over 1000 years. Their influence considerably increased during the Florentine Republic, while the city’s banking industry was developing. Notably, the family took part in large-scale infrastructure projects of the time, such as the Ponte Santa Trinita and the Basilica di Santo Spirito. Located in the Montalcino region, south-west of the medieval town, Tenuta Luce Della Vite, one of the Frescobaldi family’s estates, produces crus which rank among the greatest Tuscan and Italian wines.

The vineyard

The estate covers 192 hectares, of which 55 are planted with vines, and with an average density of 6100 vines per hectare. With an altitude between 350 and 420 hectares above sea level, Tenuta Luce Della Vite holds one of the region’s highest vineyards. The soils are rich in pebbles and sediment but poorer in organic materials, with a beautiful south-facing exposure that brings together the perfect conditions to produce great Sangiovese wines through a slow ripening process. The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are planted on the lowest part of the vineyard, on clay soils.

The vintage

The 2016 vintage opened with a mild and sunny winter, followed by springtime rainfall. This temperate climate rehydrated the vineyard and allowed for good vine development. Temperatures gradually increased from June, and summer turned out to be beautifully hot. The grapes thus ripened perfectly and presented a good state of health. Thanks to the temperature contrasts between day and night during harvests, the grapes fully developed their sublime aromatic expression.

Winemaking and ageing

After the harvests, which took place at the end of September, the grapes fermented for 12 days in cement vats at 28°C. Maceration on the grapeskins took place over 20 days so that the aromatic expression of this cru was fully developed. Malolactic fermentation was carried out in barrels. The wine was then aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Bottling took place in December 2018.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese.

Tasting

Colour

Lux Vitis 2016 is a very deep red.

Nose

The aromatic bouquet reveals the complexity of its red fruit aromas mixed with spicy, toasted notes.

Palate

Lux Vitis 2016 is a powerful, elegant and very harmonious wine. The perfect balance between acidity and structure offers a superb tannic structure. The finish delights with its intensely aromatic persistence.