95 Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Made with 100% Sangiovese, the Fattoria Le Pupille 2023 Poggio Valente was bottled in June 2025 and is scheduled for release soon. The 2023 vintage was challenging across much of Tuscany due to persistent spring rain and widespread mildew pressure that severely affected Merlot and other early-ripening grapes, but conditions in southern Maremma were more balanced thanks to the area’s naturally ventilated setting. Poggio Valente benefits from its position between two hills with the sea directly in front, creating constant airflow and a luminous quality to the wines. The Sangiovese is planted on heavier soils rich in clay and limestone, lending structure and depth, and the estate is in the process of refining its élevage by moving away from smaller oak toward larger vessels, with more than 50% of the wine now aged in botti grandi to achieve a crunchier and more transparent expression. The plan for this wine is working out beautifully.