Article: Fabio Motta
Fabio Motta
Fabio Motta’s path to Bolgheri began simply—arriving as an agronomy student to help with harvest at Michele Satta’s estate—but it quickly became personal. He fell in love with both the land and Michele’s daughter…and Michele became his father-in-law! Working alongside Satta, one of the early voices of modern Bolgheri, shaped Fabio’s outlook: farm with care, avoid excess, and let the place lead. When he started his own project in 2009 on a small stretch of coastal vineyards, he farmed organically from the start, following biodynamic principles and keeping the cellar work pared back—native yeasts, no fining or filtering, and nothing done for effect.
As the years passed, a few carefully chosen parcels and a dedicated cellar gave him room to refine without losing the hands-on feel. His wines sit comfortably within the Super Tuscan tradition, but with a lighter touch—Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon for shape and depth, Sangiovese for lift, all tempered by the cooling influence of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
2022 Bolgheri Rosso ‘Pievi’, named for three small churches along the road to the vineyard, blends Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese into a quietly confident Bolgheri red. Floral and savory up front—rose, macerated cherry, dried herbs—it’s smooth and integrated, with polished tannins and an easy sense of balance. It was featured in our recent wine club, so members got first dibs, but there’s still some to go around!
The 2021 Bolgheri Superiore ‘Le Gonnare’ shows a deeper, more structured side of Fabio’s work. Burly and rustic in the best sense, it leans into dark blackberry fruit and spice, with a pop of cherry juice that brings everything together. A serious Super Tuscan with weight and presence.
Both wines are perfect for sharing this season—generous, approachable, and full of character. Whether it’s a quiet evening or a festive table, these Bolgheri bottles deliver depth, balance, and a sense of place that’s impossible to ignore.
