Tenuta Luce was created in the early 1990s out of a partnership between Vittorio Frescobaldi and Robert Mondavi, and has been directed by Vittorio's son Lamberto since 2005. The estate sits in Montalcino, in southern Tuscany.
This is the estate's Brunello di Montalcino, and under DOCG rules it is 100% Sangiovese — unlike the same estate's Luce, which blends Sangiovese with Merlot. The fruit comes from the Madonnino vineyard at around 400 metres. After a warm, dry summer, September brought bright days and cool nights, and harvest began on 24 September. The wine spent a minimum of 24 months in Slavonian oak casks and was bottled in July 2025.
The producer describes a bright ruby colour, with red plum, fresh red berries and a hint of tobacco on the nose, and a full-bodied, velvety palate carrying citrus and spice, vibrant freshness and a long finish.
What to expect: a polished, modern Brunello rather than a rustic traditional one. Slavonian oak keeps the Sangiovese character forward instead of covering it with new-barrel sweetness. It is drinkable now with an hour's air, and has the structure to reward cellaring.
Drinking: decant for an hour. Serve at 16–18°C with steak, roast meats, braised dishes and aged cheese.