It's not unusual to be a winemaker who crafts Bordeaux-style wines in the Maremma hills of Toscana--the makers of Ornellaia, Sassicaia and Messorio all settled in what was then considered Maremma to make their wines (since that time borders have shifted a bit). What's unusual about Fattoria Le Pupille is less their choice to make the Super-Tuscan Saffredi, their Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Alicante, and more the fact that they first planted the wine's Cabernet Sauvignon ten-acre patch of vines in the early '80s and released their inaugural bottle in 1987. It was a prescient choice, and it points to the uncommon clarity of vision of the estate's owner.
Still more unusual in this Italian "Wild West" of winemakers is the driving force behind the estate, Elisabetta Geppetti. Originally just seven acres, family-owned Le Pupille grew first under the guiding hand of famed enologist Giacomo Tachis, but Elizabetta has been in charge since the mid-'80s, a role she chose when she was just a little girl growing up in the estate's farmhouse. Her decision has paid off. Not only has she been heaped with accolades and professional awards, but also her wines have been embraced by wine drinkers around the world. Her commitment to "tradition, typicality, and terroir" shines in every bottle of Elisabetta's wine.
Le Pupille's sophisticated Cabernet Sauvignon blend Saffredi embodies its maker, her pioneering spirit, and her deep devotion to Tuscan terroir. This week, we're delighted to offer you two vintages of Le Pupille's Saffredi, the '06 and the '07, along with the estate's value wine, Morellino di Scansano, and a Montepulciano-Sangiovese blend from Lanari. Taste a trail-blazer and see how beautiful an original can be.
Featured Wines
Le Pupille
Saffredi 2006, 750ml, $110.00**
Sumptuous and powerful, the ruby '06 Saffredi strikes a rare pose in the world of Super Tuscans. Juicy dark berries rest on a foundation of silky tannins, and smoke, pencil lead and crushed flowers playfully complete the palate profile for this stunner. Drinking 2014-2026.
Le Pupille
Saffredi 2007, 750ml, $98.85**
The 2007 Saffredi is a dark beauty. Rich and textured, this wine has considerable structure that serves as a foundation for its palate of dark fruit, mocha, and smoky herbs. Fresh and drinkable now, but better drinking awaits 2014-2025.
Everyday Wines Under $50
Le Pupille
Morellino di Scansano 2007, 750ml, $12.00**
From the same great estate as Saffredi comes this Sangiovese-blend value wine, whose price point and food-friendly personality may make it your new best friend. Woodsy, earthy, touched with cherry and hinting at leather, the '07 Morellino di Scansano has a captivating salinity. Drinking 2011-2013.
Lanari
Rosso Conero Riserva 2006,750ml, $42.30
This blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese hails from a site that has been growing grapes for nearly 1,000 years, and old, established root stocks combined with a great southern exposure all contribute to robust, vital wine. Tart fruit, charred meat, charcoal and a piquant minerality make this wine very tasty. Drinking now to 2015.
**Indicates pre-arrival.
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