This 25th Anniversary bottling is a blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Sangiovese. The Sangiovese vineyards for Luce are just south of the village of Montalcino planted at high elevations in soils rich in marl.The Merlot appears to dominate this seamless wine in a positive way, yet the energy of the Sangiovese comes shining through. A concentrated opaque color opens to a bouquet of violets and rose petals supported by a core of fresh black currants. Within this modern framework are layers of spices knit together with graphite, star anise and hint of minerality on the finish. In some ways, the richness of this wine is reminiscent of an Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley. A very memorable and youthful wine at this early stage of its development.