Josetta
Saffirio
Two enology teachers, Josetta Saffirio
and Roberto Vezza, released this small estate’s first
Barolo in 1985, sourced from vines in Castelletto, a small
subappellation of Monforte d’Alba. The vines were
the property of Josetta’s father, Ernesto, who was
the precipitating force behind his daughter’s move
from classroom to vineyard. The 1988 and 1989 vintages of
the Saffirio Barolo merited the recognition of the Gambero
Rosso, and vineyard plantings were extended to include Dolcetto
and Barbera. Following the 1992 vintage, however, attention
was focused exclusively on grape growing and vineyard cultivation,
as the demands of family precluded rigorous cellar attentions.
Josetta’s daughter, Sara, provided the impetus for
the family to resume its original work when she returned
home from school. Bottling recommenced in 1999.
The estate comprises five hectares, which
are primarily planted to Nebbiolo; other plantings include
Rossese Bianco, Merlot, and Barbera. The vines in one vineyard
holding are approximately 48 years old.
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