Poderi Elia, Federico Stella

	Piemonte, Italia. (Neive) 9 hectares.
	Poderi Elia. (poh-DAY-ree ay-LEE-ah)
	Federico Stella. (fay-day-REE-ko STAY-lah)
	Federico Stella. (fay-day-REE-ko STAY-lah)
	Hand-harvested.  No irrigation. Sulpher and copper. Locally sourced yeast.
	6,000 cases.
	Podere Elia has been part of the Small Vineyards family since 2004.

At Small Vineyards, we like to find winemakers who listen to their inner drum. Immediately upon meeting Federico Stella, we were aware that he is just such a man. Meticulous, beyond belief in the cellar, this young and talented producer possesses an uncanny instinct for making world-class wine. Respectful of traditional varietals, but unrelenting in his desire to improve, Stella experimented with over 30 combinations of French oak before settling on his cooperage formula! (Imagine that expense for a small estate!) Consistently he takes all of his wines right up to the edge of modernity, but then masterfully hovers there, never once crossing the line or going too far. Sitting down to taste wine at the family’s dinner table, we also get to see the patience and love he shows his family. Although extremely affable, Federico remains serious while discussing his vision. Indeed, even when the subject of conversation turns away from Poderi Elia, one always has the distinct impression that, privately, Federico is still thinking about his wine…