2021 Pepe, Emidio - Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC Branella (750ml)

Emidio Pepe is one of Abruzzo's most iconic estates, farmed biodynamically in Torano Nuovo since the modern winery's founding in 1964. This bottling is the second vintage released under the Branella designation, a two-hectare parcel purchased by the family in 1981 though the vines themselves date to 1966. Named after the plot's former owner, Branella sits fairly level with a slight southeast exposure, distinguishing it from the estate's other historic vineyard, Casa Pepe, just 300 meters away. Its soils carry a higher sand content with distinct geological variation across the parcel, allowing roots to penetrate deeply and giving the resulting wine a more agile, precise character.

Grapes are hand harvested, hand destemmed, and gently macerated for seven to eight days before spontaneous fermentation in cement tanks without pump-overs. The wine then ages roughly two years in cement before bottling unfined and unfiltered.

The 2021 Branella is spicy and floral, layered with grilled herb and autumnal spice notes over dried black cherry. Dark red and blue fruit unfold slowly on a silky, elegant palate, framed by saline minerality and fine, grippy tannins that build toward a long, staining finish of blackberry and violet. It rewards extended cellaring and pairs well with braised meats, game, and aged cheeses.