2016 Fanti San Filippo - Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Le Lucere

San Filippo sits in the northern hills of Montalcino, close neighbor to the storied vineyards of Biondi Santi's Il Greppo and La Serena. Founded in 1972, with its first Brunello released in 1977, the estate was later acquired by Roberto Giannelli, who restored the property and brought in respected consulting winemaker Paolo Caciorgna. Under their direction San Filippo has earned a reputation as one of Montalcino's most compelling small producers, prized for wines that age gracefully while remaining generous and approachable even in youth.

Le Lucere is San Filippo's single-vineyard riserva selection, sourced from a small parcel of schist soil planted entirely to Sangiovese. The 2016 vintage is widely regarded as one of Montalcino's finest in decades, giving the grapes exceptional ripeness balanced by fresh acidity. Following fermentation, the wine ages for roughly two years in a combination of barrique, tonneau, and large Slavonian oak casks, then rests further in bottle before release, a slow process that builds the wine's depth and polish.

The glass reveals morello cherry, dried flowers, sandalwood, and a whisper of vanilla, layered over dusty mineral and balsamic herb notes. On the palate the wine is full and structured, with refined, long tannins and a touch of natural sweetness beneath its powerful frame. Serve it with roasted game, herb-crusted lamb, or a well-aged pecorino to match its intensity.