What wine is Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 'Black edition' 2019 - Plozza

Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 'Black edition' 2019 - Plozza is an elegant and structured red mountain wine, produced in Valtellina, in the heart of the Lombardy Alps. It is made from Nebbiolo grapes (locally called Chiavennasca), a variety that expresses surprising aromatic intensity and complexity here. Its decisive character and finesse are the result of a unique territory, where terraced vineyards climb the mountain slopes, benefiting from strong temperature fluctuations and ideal sun exposure. The result is a full-bodied wine with a surprisingly harmonious taste, designed for those who love red wines with personality, yet balanced and pleasant.

Vintage Details

The 2019 vintage in Valtellina was characterized by regular climatic conditions and a dry summer, ideal for obtaining healthy and concentrated grapes. The harvest allowed for a careful selection of the best bunches, destined for appassimento: a traditional process that allows the grapes to slowly dehydrate, concentrating sugars, aromas, and structure. The result is an intense wine, with a balanced profile between strength and finesse.

Vinification and Aging

After a natural drying period of about three months on wooden racks, the grapes are pressed and ferment slowly to allow for full extraction of color and tannins. The prolonged maceration is followed by aging in oak barriques, where the wine evolves for several months, acquiring softness, aromatic complexity, and a pleasant roundness on the palate. It then rests in the bottle to complete its elegant and mature profile.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 'Black edition' 2019 - Plozza presents an intense, bright garnet red, with ruby reflections that attest to its freshness and vitality, despite its significant structure.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with notes of ripe red fruit – cherry and plum – followed by elegant spicy and toasty nuances due to its time in wood. Slight balsamic hints and touches of cocoa and tobacco then emerge, enriching its complexity.

Palate

On the palate, it is full-bodied, enveloping, and supported by dense but well-polished tannins. The structure is solid, yet balanced by excellent freshness that provides momentum and pleasantness. Long and persistent on the finish, it leaves a memory of dried fruit and sweet spices.

Food Pairings for Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 'Black edition' 2019 - Plozza

This wine pairs perfectly with rich and flavorful dishes that can support its structure and intensity. Some ideas:

• Roasted or grilled red meats
• Braised or stewed game
• Aged cheeses, such as Bitto and Valtellina Casera
• Pasta with meat ragù or porcini mushrooms

It is also an excellent meditation wine, to be enjoyed in good company, perhaps with dark chocolate or after dinner.

Storage and Aging: How to store Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 'Black edition' 2019 - Plozza wine

To best preserve it, it is important to keep the bottles horizontally, away from direct light and at a constant temperature between 14 and 16°C. The ideal humidity is around 70%, to prevent the cork from drying out. Thanks to its structure and the balance between alcohol, acidity, and tannin, this wine has excellent aging potential: it can refine in the cellar for over ten years, evolving towards increasingly complex and refined notes.