Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Nebbiolo (Chiavennasca) comes from vineyards in Villa di Tirano and Montagna in Valtellina, while the Merlot is grown in Tirano. The vineyards are recognised for Valtellina or Valtellina Superiore DOC production. The wine is instead presented as Terrazze Retiche di Sondrio IGT because of its vinification method and shorter maturation.
Grapes
90% Nebbiolo (Chiavennasca) and 10% Merlot. Only perfectly healthy fruit is used.
Vinification
Following an old Valtellina method documented by G. F. Massara in 1834, intact bunches are placed in vats with a small quantity of fermenting must. After 6–10 days they are pressed gently, at a pressure likened to traditional hand or foot pressing. Temperatures are regulated during both whole-bunch fermentation and the subsequent vigorous fermentation. The cap is repeatedly immersed. Fermentation is followed by a final warm maceration and drawing off.
The young wine is held in stainless steel, where malolactic fermentation is completed. Several rackings follow during the waning moon.
Ageing
In March, part of the wine goes into 50-hL oak casks and the remainder into 550-litre oak barriques. It matures there until the following August or September, when it is bottled. Bottle development can continue for many years.
Technical data
Alcohol: 12.30–13.00% vol. Total acidity: 5.10–5.40 g/L. pH: 3.5–3.75. Dry extract: 27–32 g/L.
Tasting profile
Moderately deep, bright ruby red with purple reflections. The varied bouquet recalls blackberry, blackcurrant and raspberry, followed by pepper and spice. Initially vinous and smooth, the palate combines freshness with substantial body and complexity. Tannins are balanced, and the finish has good persistence.
Serving and pairing
Serve young at 15–16°C and at 18–20°C after three years. Pair with complex, spicy first courses combining strong and sweet flavours, or with white meat and poultry. Its finesse is already apparent after a few months in bottle, while its structure permits ageing for 10–12 years or longer.
