Frescobaldi - Tenuta Luce della Vite : Luce 2020

Well-marked by vanilla from the new oak, this also features flavors of black currant, blackberry, flowers and iron. Racy even, with vibrant acidity and a line of dusty tannins lingering on the finish. Comes together with air, so give this a few years to absorb the oak. Sangiovese and Merlot. Best from 2025 through 2040. 7,917 cases made, 850 cases imported.

Aromas of garden herbs and tobacco are subtle for the time being. Dark, fleshy cherry suffuses the palate, and its creamy texture and vanilla finish are countered by tangy acidity. It's already approachable overall, although the tannins could use a bit more time to integrate. Lamberto Frescobaldi describes the 2020 vintage as straightforward and balanced without significant heat spikes. And indeed, Luce captures the suave, almost carefree character of the vintage.

A delicate whiff of dusty dried violets gives way to cedary spice and crushed plums as the 2020 Luce slowly opens in the glass. This is soothingly round and supple with cooling acidity and a tinge of minerality up front. Tart red berry fruits swirl across a stream of zesty acidity. The 2020 displays fantastic depth and concentration, tapering off long and gently tannic as black raspberries pucker the cheeks. This is a very approachable vintage of Luce, yet the balance is spot on. Nicely done.

Seductive raspberry and liquorice aromatics, confident tannic grip with orange peel, pomegranate, black tea, soy, rosemary and Tuscan underbrush, good quality, 100% new oak. 88ha estate, winemaker Alessandro Marini.