Wine families celebrate 30 years of Tuscany and Napa Valley partnership

In a notable event held at Christie's Auction House, a historic vertical tasting was conducted, highlighting 30 years of Luce della Vite wines. The event took place in New York City and was led by Alessandro Marini, the winemaker for the Frescobaldi family's Tenuta Luce. Guests had the opportunity to experience a variety of vintage expressions from this unique wine that harmoniously blends two grape varieties, Sangiovese and Merlot, which are often viewed as opposites in the wine world. The tasting featured vintages spanning several decades, allowing for an examination of how the wine has evolved over time. Among the wines showcased was the 2002 vintage, which was previously anticipated to show less potential due to unfavorable growing conditions. However, attendees were surprised by its intricate complexity and depth, demonstrating that regardless of vintage challenges, high-quality wine can nonetheless be produced by esteemed winemakers. The vertical tasting provided insights into the craftsmanship of the producers who strive to create quality wines in every vintage year. Renowned for its winemaking lineage, the Frescobaldi family has been cultivating vineyards in Tuscany for over 700 years, becoming a cornerstone of the Italian wine industry. This long-standing heritage adds to the prestige of Luce della Vite, which is particularly notable for its innovative blends that pair the Tuscan Sangiovese with the internationally acclaimed Merlot. As guests walked through the elegant venue adorned with fine art, they experienced not only a tasting but also a connection to a rich tradition of winemaking. The tasting at Christie's aimed not only to celebrate the legacy of Luce della Vite but also to underscore the importance of adaptability and excellence in winemaking. The climate in Tuscany poses unique challenges, with intense summer heat followed by cooler nights, influencing the ripening of grapes. This environment, along with the winemaking expertise of the Frescobaldi family, has allowed them to produce wines that are both elegant and deeply expressive of their terroir.