And the breeze whispers poems. Those poems, may just be the wine. And thus, are the story of Massimo Piccin. We first introduced you to Podere Sapaio early last year, after spending considerable time chatting with Massimo at Gambero Rosso.
Podere Sapaio lies in Maremma, in southern Tuscany near the village of Castagneto Carducci. From its 24 hectares divided into 6 distinct vineyard plots, Massimo produces 2 wines based on the grapes that have found such a natural home here near the Tuscan coast: Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot.
As mentioned above, last year we reviewed Sapaio, the estate’s flagship. Today, we’re looking at Volpolo. Like it’s older sibling, Volpolo, Bolgheri DOC, is sourced from the same vineyards and contains the same blend of grapes, though in slightly different proportions – 70% Cabernet, 15% Merlot and 15% Petit Verdot. The differences lie in the grape selection and aging prior to release.
~ The rolling vineyards of Podere Sapaio ~
The 2015 Sapaio Volpolo is the newest release from the winery and a great harbinger of the highly acclaimed 2015 vintage. Volpolo is a deep violet color trending almost to a full purple. The aromas are wild and pure with juicy ripe black fruits, cedar, mint, cypress and notes of cigar tobacco. On the palate, the wine is delicious with a forward juicy texture and loads of dusty, refined tannins. With the blend being 70% Cabernet it’s substantially medium to full bodied. The black fruit flavors follow the nose with baking spices, warmed clay, dusty tobacco, hints of salinity and herb notes that are elegant and very well balanced. The long finish shortens the fruit just a bit. This could use 2-3 years in the cellar to soften, but with truffle crusted filet mignons, it was irresistible at this stage. As I stated in my review of the 2012 Volpolo – “I’m not sure Volpolo surrenders much to its older brother.” In fact, this is better than that version. The price has gone up since I reported on the 2012, but it’s still a steal around $26. 94 points.
~ Volpolo is 70% Cabernet, 15% Merlot and 15% Petit Verdot ~
Want to read the review of the 2012? Want to find these wines? Wine Searcher
Salute!
