2020 Brunello di Montalcino, Passo del Lume Spento, Le Ragnaie

There is a brown road sign just above this vineyard site that reads: "Passo del Lume Spento m. 621 s.l.m." The sign marks the highest point of the appellation, measured at 621 meters above sea level, and it's covered in colorful stickers from travelers who passed by. The Le Ragnaie 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento is a very special wine that opens a whole conversation regarding elevation and cool-climate Sangiovese. Heavyweights Gaja and Marchesi Antinori have recently acquired vineyards in the same area. The area has sandstone soils with views that extend to the Tyrrhenian Sea on a clear day. The vines were planted in 2012. However, the key remains elevation and freshness. Passo del Lume Spento reveals an almost fragile bouquet of wild berry fruit and blue flowers. It also delivers the freshness and structure for cellar aging. ~ (97) Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 11-21-2024

The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento is delicate and understated, slowly evolving with a pretty blend of ground cloves, sage and dried strawberries. It sweeps across the palate, silken yet lifted and spry, with mineral-infused red berry fruits guided by a core of vibrant acidity. It leaves violet and lavender tones to resonate, finishing with a subtle tug of fine tannins and a crunchy sensation. ~ (93) Eric Guido, Vinous 11-1-2024

The 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino Passo Del Lume Spento is generous and pretty on the nose, with well-detailed aromas of wild raspberries, cranberries, rosemary, fresh earth, floral incense, and pine needles. It has an elegant and woodsy profile, with medium to full-bodied richness, a fantastic detailed and chiseled structure, a compact feel with defined ripe tannins, refreshing, even, balanced acidity, and a mouthwatering mineral-noted finish. It's a great start to the black labels of Le Ragnaie. Drink over the coming 15 or more years. ~ (97) Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com 1-22-2025