2007 Fattoria Le Pupille Saffredi

This is one of the surprise wines of this vertical tasting. The Fattoria le Pupille 2007 Saffredi is mature and complex with rich concentration and lots of balsamic intensity that draws in notes of licorice and medicinal herb. I had reservations regarding the hot 2007 vintage back in the day and doubted its capacity for long cellar aging. This wine is drinking very nicely right now and is probably near its peak. The season was hot, but we’ve seen similar temperatures more frequently in the years since. September rains in 2007 are what saved the vintage and brought fruit into balance. The Merlot used in the blend was harvested at the beginning of September, and that grape gives additional richness and density. The wine preforms best at the beginning, but the intensity of its aromas begins to fade 20 minutes or so later.

55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Syrah. Summer, with average seasonal temperatures and some rain at the beginning of September, led the grapes to ripen in a homogeneous and balanced manner. The harvest was carried out in one month without interruption, starting from 5 September. The Saffredi label changed in 2007 but the blend remained the same. 21,000 bottles produced. Dark crimson. The first bottle was affected by TCA , but the second bottle was impeccable. Round and easy. Polished tannins. Lots of drive and impact, even if not that subtle or complex at this point. Both light tarry tannins and a little drying on the end. Not fully formed but with lots of charm and structure. Toasty finish. Very satisfying. (JR)

The 2007 Saffredi is drop-dead gorgeous. Roasted coffee beans, grilled herbs, mocha and dark fruit emerge from this beautiful, textured wine. The richness of the fruit radiates through to the long, polished finish. The 2007 Saffredi impresses for its fabulous balance and soft, enveloping personality. It is another superb effort from proprietor Elisabetta Geppetti.