Where is Luce wine from?

Answered by Bill Hernandez

Luce originates from the picturesque region of Montalcino in Tuscany, Italy. Nestled in the hills of southwest Montalcino, this area is renowned for its stunning landscapes and exceptional wine production. The story of Luce wine begins in the 1960s when the Marchese Vittorio Frescobaldi, a prominent figure in the Italian wine industry, identified the original site as one of exceptional quality.

Recognizing the potential of this land, the Marchese partnered with Robert Mondavi, a legendary Californian winemaker, to bring their vision to life. Their joint venture resulted in the creation of Luce della Vite, a winery committed to producing world-class wines that showcase the unique terroir of Montalcino.

The partnership between the Marchese and Mondavi was an inspired collaboration, blending the Old World winemaking traditions of Italy with the innovative techniques of the New World. This fusion of expertise and passion led to the birth of Luce wine, which quickly gained recognition and acclaim.

The vineyards of Luce della Vite are located in the heart of Montalcino, benefiting from the region's ideal climate and soil conditions. The warm days and cool nights create the perfect balance for grape cultivation, allowing the fruit to develop complex flavors and aromas.

The vineyards are meticulously managed, with a focus on sustainable practices that respect the environment and preserve the integrity of the land. The grapes used in Luce wine production are primarily Sangiovese, the signature grape of Montalcino, which lends elegance and structure to the wine. Additionally, small amounts of Merlot are blended into the wine, enhancing its richness and adding depth to the final product.

The winemaking process at Luce della Vite is a delicate dance of tradition and innovation. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and carefully sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise control over the winemaking process.

After fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of French oak and stainless steel tanks to impart complexity and enhance the wine's characteristics. This aging process allows the flavors to integrate and develop, resulting in a wine that is both expressive and harmonious.

One of the unique aspects of Luce wine is its ability to age gracefully. While the wine can certainly be enjoyed in its youth, it also has the potential to evolve and improve with time. This is a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into every bottle of Luce wine.

Luce wine is a product of the partnership between the Marchese Vittorio Frescobaldi and Robert Mondavi, hailing from the beautiful region of Montalcino in Tuscany, Italy. It is a wine that represents the best of both the Old World and the New World, combining tradition with innovation to create a truly exceptional drinking experience.