This was the newest vintage tasted as part of this retrospective at the estate. The Fattoria le Pupille 2020 Saffredi shows signs of the hot vintage, especially when tasted in context with the gorgeous 2019, the more candied 2018, the toasted 2017 and the classic 2016 vintages. The 2020 definitely shows a riper and fuller character with bold, big-picture terms and fewer tiny details as a result. Elisabetta Geppetti refers to this edition as a "return to the Taschis school," referring to the celebrated Tuscan consultant Giacomo Taschis, whose signature style embraced balanced ripeness. This wine offers end notes of savory tobacco and spice.

Released in January 2023 (‘because we need to keep investing’ – they’re planning a new building for offices and tasting room for example). Very different year from the 2019. They increased the Cabernet Sauvignon for this hot, dry vintage only (60 to 80%). Plus 10% each of Merlot and Petit Verdot. The Merlot did not thrive in the heat of 2020. Very bright crimson. Very linear cassis nose. Great purity. Little bit of oak still. Still a bit dry on the end but certainly impressive. (JR)