San Filippo ‘Le Lucere’ Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2016 – 750ml Not specified

98pts James Suckling

Complex and refined aromas of blackberries, flowers, sandalwood and a hint of vanilla follow through to a full body with dusty, polished tannins that are extremely long and flavorful. Muscular, yet agile at the same time. Try after 2025.

97pts Wine Spectator

This lithe red delivers concentrated flavors of cherry, raspberry, strawberry, floral and eucalyptus allied to a firm underlying structure. Long, with refined tannins and a chalky feel in the end. Best from 2026 through 2045. 350 cases made, 150 cases imported.

Winemaker Notes

The color is ruby red with reflexes verging on garnet. The perfume is intense, fine and elegant, with notes of cherries preserved in alcohol, enriched with spices redolent of cinnamon and cloves. On the palate it explodes in all its fineness and elegance thanks to the dense and silky tannins. Excellent body that renders the flavour harmonious and persistent. Excellent nose-mouth correspondence.

Situated in the splendid area of Northern Montalcino close to Biondi Santi’s Il Greppo and La Serena, the wines of San Filippo are ageworthy and elegant, though very approachable in their youth. The estate totals 22 hectares, 11 of which are under vine, dedicated mostly to Sangiovese, with a small olive grove as well. Founded in 1972 (1977 was the first year of production), the estate was recently purchased by Roberto Giannelli who restored and renovated the entire facility. With the help of Paolo Caciorgna, Roberto is producing 2500 cases of Brunello aged in Slavonian and Allier oak casks each year, as well as 800 cases of a delicious Rosso di Montalcino aged 6 months in used barriques and large casks.