Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucere Ris. 2015 1.5 L San Filippo

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva le Lucére reveals rich and well-concentrated fruit with blackberry, prune and plum. The bouquet also has a moment of scorched earth or toasted oak that is quite developed and, to my palate, subtracts from the purity of the fruit. The oak is heavily applied (and I am reminded of American oak). This Riserva ages in barrique, tonneau and botte grande for two years and fruit is drawn from an east-facing vineyard with clay galestro and alberese soils. It is only made in the best years, and this edition saw 4,000 bottles produced. There are soft cherry notes on the finish.

The opulence and decadence is really something here with dried fruit, figs, meat and black truffles on the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied, layered and creamy with intense, round tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. Best after 2022, but already a joy to taste.

Floral, black cherry, black currant, spice, earth and mineral flavors abound in this appealing red. Smooth and lively, offers excellent balance and a lingering aftertaste, with a complex finish that is resonant and promising. Best from 2024 through 2047. 400 cases made.

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucere Riserva blends dusty ripe cherries and earth tones, with notes of sage and exotic spice to form a slightly extroverted yet gorgeous display. It boasts creamy textures cast across a medium-bodied frame, yet it’s wonderfully balanced by zesty, mouthwatering acidity. Cherries, blackberries and currants can all be found here, along with salty minerals adding a tactile feel under an air of violet florals. This is tamed by fine tannins through the finish, ending with a youthfully restrained yet fresh display. The 2015 Riserva is packed full of character and fruit-forward, it’s sure to have a lot of fans.