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.
critic reviews
The Le Ragnaie 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento (with 3,020 bottles made) sees its fruit sourced from one of the highest places in the appellation, or the "pass of the extinguished lantern," as the wine's name translates into English. It is part of a broader trend that Montalcino vintners seem to be looking for cooler, high-altitude growing sites for Sangiovese. This wine demonstrates without a doubt that elevation is key in obtaining elegance in the warm years. This Brunello is particularly bright, punchy and energetic. It is one of the stars of this report.