2021 Fattoria Le Pupille Poggio Valente Toscana 750 ml

How is it that not EVERY single red-wine lover in the world knows Fattoria Le Pupille’s Poggio Valente Toscana? 

The answer, we believe, is simple: It’s not from a globally known region like Brunello or Chianti. Rather, it comes from the promised land of Morellino di Scansano, an Eden of sun-kissed hills just miles from the Tyrrhenian Sea that Wine Spectator dubbed “grape heaven.” 

Morellino produces some of Tuscany’s liveliest, most food-friendly Sangiovese. Fattoria Le Pupille is an icon of the area, and their 2021 Le Pupille is one of their greatest ever. Poggio Valente’s vineyard sits 280 meters above sea level and has an ideal southeast aspect—the better to catch the morning sun. Vines anchored in a mix of stones and sandstone soils complete the terroir, laying the groundwork for exceptional grapes that ultimately result in a truly distinguished wine. 

The 2021 Fattoria Le Pupille Poggio Volante is the masterwork of winemaker Elisabetta Geppetti—the perfect person to showcase what Morellino can do. Her connection to the land is strong: She inherited the estate at age 20, and her iconic Saffredi bottling possesses the same status among collectors as Solaia, Ornellaia, and Sassicaia. Her 30 years of experience in the region have earned her the unofficial titles of “Ambassador of Maremma” and “Lady of Morellino.” 

Her persistence has kept Le Pupille in the upper echelon, and she is now shepherding her daughter Clara Gentili through the business. In the cellar, the result of Geppetti’s efforts is the Poggio Valente, a wine of richness and grace. It’s tough to find in general, and we have a fantastic price. Italian-wine lovers, be vigilant.