Brunello di Montalcino, Passo del Lume Spento, 2017

The debut release of the Passo del Lume Spento as a Brunello, thanks to changes in the appellation which now permits grapes above 600m to qualify. Riccardo’s is a younger vine plot at 621m elevation above the winery, higher up the slope. Now that it is recognised as a Brunello some rather salubrious producers, who will remain nameless, have moved in and planted vineyards too! An intermingling of savoury and sweet, the bouquet betrays touches of leather and sandalwood with fresh red berries, cherry and lavender. Very fresh in style, traces of herb and heather with extra spice on the finish, it’s easy to see how it has its own personality. As things stand, this is the highest vineyard in the entire Brunello di Montalcino denomination.