Description

The spring of 1997 was unusually warm, and budbreak and flowering started early in all the varieties, particularly in Sangiovese. On April 8 southern Tuscany suffered a freeze, but because of the elevation of Luce’s vineyards, they were only partially affected. Temperatures were excellent in May and June, which helped growth development, while plenty of sun in August and September brought earlier than usual ripening, but in a uniform manner. Harvest revealed an outstanding degree of concentration in the grapes, as well as optimal sugar and phenol levels.rGrape Varietals:rSangiovese, MerlotrTasting Notes:rLuce 1997 is a firm and distinctive wine, yet refi ned and elegant, showing a striking ruby colour. A rich, variegated nose releases seductive fragrances of raspberry and blackcurrant that dance together with smoother notes of vanilla and clove, bringing to the bouquet notable warmth and length. The tannins are exceptionally fi ne-grained and velvety, which addsimmeasurably to the complexity of this wine.r91 Points – Cellar Trackerr90 Points – Falstaff, January 2004. “Medium carmine garnet, delicately ochkered, wider edge lightening, vegetal on the nose, sweet spice, plus some caramel, blackberries, pickled plums, juicy on the palate, somewhat expansive, compact, ripe tannins that are still fully gripping, delicately peppery in the finish, a steak wine. Mineral reverberation.”r89 Points -Gismondi on Wine, March 2000. “The quality of the ’97 fruit is beginning to show through. Frescobaldi describes sangiovese as a ballerina on her toes. Look for a terrific nose of spice and cherry with streaks of pepper. Lucente is polished and smooth in the mouth with lots of soft vanilla fruit and spicy cola fruit flavours. New World meets Old and it’s a marriage made in heaven.”rr