Emidio Pepe 'Branella' Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Abruzzo, Italy 2021
Pickup available at DECANT Napa - 2999 Solano, Napa, CA
Usually ready in 1 hour
The 'Branella' is a rare single-vineyard expression from Emidio Pepe, sourced from one of the estate’s most historic and expressive parcels. While Emidio Pepe is synonymous with age-worthy, traditionally made Montepulciano, the Branella bottling offers a more site-specific lens, revealing the nuanced character of a vineyard planted by Emidio himself over 50 years ago. As always, the wine is produced biodynamically and by hand, following the same non-interventionist approach that has defined the estate since 1964.
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WINEMAKER: Chiara De Iulis Pepe
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FARMING: Certified Biodynamic
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VARIETY: 100% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
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TERROIR: Sourced from the Branella vineyard in Torano Nuovo, a high-elevation site with clay-limestone soils. The Adriatic Sea and Apennine Mountains provide cooling influences, contributing to freshness and balance. Branella is known for producing deeply structured fruit with natural concentration.
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VINIFICATION: Grapes are hand-harvested and foot-tread in wooden vats. Fermentation is spontaneous with native yeasts in glass-lined cement tanks. No fining or filtration is applied.
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AGING: Aged in glass-lined cement for approximately two years, followed by extended bottle aging before release.
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TASTING NOTES: Intense and layered, with aromas of black cherry, violets, licorice, and dried herbs. The palate is powerful yet harmonious, showing dark plum, earth, and savory spice, with firm tannins and vibrant acidity that promise longevity.
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FOOD PAIRINGS: Grilled lamb, porchetta, aged cheeses, or mushroom ragù.
The 'Branella' is a rare single-vineyard expression from Emidio Pepe, sourced from one of the estate’s most historic and expressive parcels. While Emidio Pepe is synonymous with age-worthy, traditionally made Montepulciano, the Branella bottling offers a more site-specific lens, revealing the nuanced character of a vineyard planted by Emidio himself over 50 years ago. As always, the wine is produced biodynamically and by hand, following the same non-interventionist approach that has defined the estate since 1964.
-
WINEMAKER: Chiara De Iulis Pepe
-
FARMING: Certified Biodynamic
-
VARIETY: 100% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
-
TERROIR: Sourced from the Branella vineyard in Torano Nuovo, a high-elevation site with clay-limestone soils. The Adriatic Sea and Apennine Mountains provide cooling influences, contributing to freshness and balance. Branella is known for producing deeply structured fruit with natural concentration.
-
VINIFICATION: Grapes are hand-harvested and foot-tread in wooden vats. Fermentation is spontaneous with native yeasts in glass-lined cement tanks. No fining or filtration is applied.
-
AGING: Aged in glass-lined cement for approximately two years, followed by extended bottle aging before release.
-
TASTING NOTES: Intense and layered, with aromas of black cherry, violets, licorice, and dried herbs. The palate is powerful yet harmonious, showing dark plum, earth, and savory spice, with firm tannins and vibrant acidity that promise longevity.
-
FOOD PAIRINGS: Grilled lamb, porchetta, aged cheeses, or mushroom ragù.