Luce della Vite - "Lucente" Toscana IGT, Italy 2018

WA94/D92/V91

Wine Advocate 94 Points - "An icon wine of the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Tenuta Luce 2018 Luce is recognized far and wide for its pretty sunshine motif on the front label. This mix of equal parts Sangiovese and Merlot is a symbolic marriage of Italy and France blended to safeguard the core identities of its two vinous protagonists. The Sangiovese adds wild rose, cherry and freshness; the Merlot brings on softness and texture. Each actor plays off the other in a flirtatious but ultimately complementary manner. This is a full-bodied Tuscan blend (aged for 24 months in 80% new French barrique) that will definitely give pleasure to that large crowd of Luce enthusiasts out there."

Newsletter Special - $19.99

Decanter 92 Points - "Inviting and intense, the second wine from Luce is bright, elegant and packed full of acidity. An equal blend of 50/50 Sangiovese and Merlot gives flavours of blackberries and cherries with touches of vanilla and toast. Needs more time but there's real promise here with succulence and power in spades." (Drink between 2021-2029)  

The Luce estate covers 615 acres, 217 of which are planted with Sangiovese and Merlot. The estate is in the southwest of Montalcino, at one of the highest elevation points, and south/southwest facing; the freshness and structure that result play in tension with the deep, perfectly ripe fruit. Higher elevation planting have sandstone and limestone, and are ideal for Sangiovese. Clay in the lower altitude vineyards is perfect for the powerful expression of Merlot.

Lockhouse Distillery - Seasonal Cherry Blossom Sakura Gin 

Made using cherry blossoms collected from throughout the Olmsted Park Conservatory in Buffalo New York

This seasonal gin is something to look forward to every spring. Made from Lockhouse's signature botanical based gin then conditioned on local cherry blossoms to create an incredibly mellow and floral style gin focused on nuance rather than a heavy juniper bite. It's delicate on the palate with notes of wild roses, lemon zest, coconut, and garden sage. It has enough character to be thoroughly enjoyed on the rocks with a twist, amazing in a gimlet, and would accentuate any classic gin based cocktail. I suggest trying this in a classic Aviation cocktail, simply remove the Creme de Violette to allow the Luxardo cherry liqueur and cherry blossom gin to shine, a squeeze of fresh lemon and brandied cherry garnish and you're all set for spring!

Newsletter Special - $34.99

Barrel Head Cellars - Cabernet Sauvignon "The Trip", California 2019

Our Best Buy California Cabernet Sauvignon is Back!

Time to stock up on the fantastic new vintage of our top selling Cabernet Sauvignon from Barrel Head Cellars. This is easily the best Cabernet under $15 we've tasted all year. With 20 months of new and used French oak and primarily sunny Lodi fruit, this Cabernet has aromas of rich dark fruit, cocoa, subtle earth, and a touch of barrel spice. On the palate it's medium-plus bodied, with silky tannins and fresh acidity. This is a very well balanced and well-structured wine, perfect with your favorite BBQ or steakhouse favorites, all at a price that's not going to break the bank!

Newsletter Special - $11.95

Cheers! -Alex

Alexander Knechel - Certified Sommelier

Wine Sales Manager - Plucky Wines

alexanderknechel@pluckywines.com