Tenuta Sette Ponti’s Vigna dell’Impero 1935 is a single-vineyard Sangiovese that leans heavily on place and history. The vines were planted in 1935 by Duke Amedeo of Savoy-Aosta in the upper Arno Valley near Arezzo, and the wine is bottled under Valdarno di Sopra Sangiovese DOC. It’s positioned as a flagship, made only in strong vintages in limited quantities, with individually numbered bottles.

The estate’s approach is traditional: long fermentation and maceration in large oak, aging in big casks (botte), no filtration, and extended bottle aging before release. The vineyard is noted for marl-rich soils, a south/southeast exposure, and elevation around 278 meters, all of which point toward a structured, age-worthy interpretation rather than a simple early-drinking Sangiovese.

Critical reception for the 2021 is notably consistent at a high level, with three excellent 94-point reviews from major publications. James Suckling calls it “very ripe this year,” emphasizing “lots of plum and chocolate aromas and flavors,” but also notes it “tightens on the palate, with fresh citrusy acidity and a silky finish,” adding, “From old vines. Drink or hold” (JamesSuckling.com). At Vinous, Antonio Galloni describes a more shadowed profile: “a potent, brooding wine” built around “dark Sangiovese fruit, cedar, new leather, blood orange, incense and wild herbs,” and he highlights “a good bit of tannic clout and overall structure that suggests some cellaring is essential” (Vinous). Wine Enthusiast’s Danielle Callegari focuses on freshness and mineral character, citing “crushed rocks, wild herbs, blood orange and blackberry tea,” with “tart and sweet berries” and acidity that “soars overhead” (Wine Enthusiast).

Taken together, 2021 Vigna dell’Impero reads as full-bodied and ripe, but anchored by acidity, firm structure, and savory detail—built to improve with time.