2017 Podere Sapaio "Sapaio" Bolgheri Rosso Superiore, Tuscany, Italy (750ml)   

Podere Sapaio covers 48 hectares in Bolgheri with 25 hectares under vine which are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. While Massimo Piccin only produces two wines, the Volpolo Bolgheri D.O.C. and this Sapaio Bolgheri Superiore, they actually start out as 25 different wines because he vinifies and ages each varietal from each plot of vineyard separately before he puts the final blends together.

Without any formal winemaking education, Massimo has earned quite a reputation for producing excellent, consistent Tre Bicchieri winning wines and is equally admired for his dedication to responsibly farming his vineyards organically. While this 2015 'Sapaio' is only a baby right now, it shows surprising presence and infinite drinkability at such a young age, certainly compared to previous vintages which took more time to come around. Then again, we are talking strictly Bordeaux varietals here at Sapaio; Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot in order of prominence, so we know the wines have tremendous structure and are built for long term aging. The 13 is vibrant with delicious dark red fruits, rich dark chocolate, a little savory herb and a touch of earth with some smoky pencil lead for affect - that envelop the medium to full bodied palate. The finish supports medium toned, slightly dusty tannins and a good amount of refreshing acidity. A great bottle of wine for drinking now and aging for another 5-7 years in your cellar.