Valtellina essentials

Of all the "heroic" and mountain viticulture areas in Italy, Valtellina definitely has pride of place. The south-facing slope of the high Adda Valley, which is a natural bridge between the Lombardy lake region and the Swiss Alps, is extraordinarily rich in vineyards arranged on ancient terraces built by hand since the 16th century. Snow, currents, temperatures ranging from 5 to 35°C, summer heat and especially land which is steep and precious, rich in sand, clay and silt, give the wine structure, finesse and amazing longevity. In the five Valtellina wine-growing areas, each of which has its own unique personality, the local Nebbiolo, which is probably the oldest in the world, has found its true land of choice. Here it expresses its austere power and surprising finesse, framed in soft colours and the profound scents of brazen mountains: the elegant and velvety Grumello, the sun-drenched and rich Inferno, the austere and magnificent Sassella, all aged for at least two years in large barrels (three for the Reserves). Special mention should be made of the majestic Sforzato, obtained from dry-vinified raisined Nebbiolo grapes, a repository of power and balance that the true lover of these mountains and this amazing vine variety cannot live without. Pairings? Let your imagination go wild. But an ample Valtellina dinner with bresaola, pizzoccheri and game salmi is the best starting point to begin enjoying your precious jewels!