Grumello Valtellina Superiore DOCG 2020

For once, Nebbiolo is not the protagonist in Piedmont but in Valtellina. Here, under the name of Chiavennasca, the noble grape used to make great red wines is used to produce Valtellina Superiore, one of the 5 regional DOCGs. In this case, the Rainoldi winery offers the version from the Grumello sub-zone, which includes the municipalities of Sondrio and Montagna in Valtellina. Just under 100 hectares of a fascinating and unique territory. The particular "verticality" of this area, in fact, means that vineyards can be found as early as 350 metres above sea level. But also at over 650 metres, in the highest part called Dossi Salati. The wines produced here are particularly fresh and fruity. The one proposed by Rainoldi is the result of a slow maceration at a controlled temperature, cadenced by cycles of pumping over and punching down. The wine is then placed in steel tanks while waiting for the malolactic fermentation to be completed by spring. It then matures for about eighteen months in Slavonian oak casks, followed by a few fundamental months of bottle ageing. Ruby red, the nose is astonishing for its delicate scents of fresh fruit and subtle hints of hazelnut. In the mouth it is fresh and harmonious. Full-bodied, it is an excellent drinking wine. It goes well with white and red meats, vegetables and medium-aged cheeses.