What kind of wine is Valtellina Rosso DOC 'Matteo Bandello' 2023 - Luca Faccinelli

The Valtellina Rosso DOC 'Matteo Bandello' 2023 - Luca Faccinelli is an elegant and authentic red wine, a sincere expression of Valtellina's winemaking tradition. It is made from Nebbiolo grapes—locally known as Chiavennasca—grown on steep terraces with ideal sun exposure and significant temperature fluctuations. This particular condition gives the wine a lively yet harmonious personality, perfect for accompanying meals from appetizer to main course.

The wine has a medium body, with a profile that combines the typical freshness of young reds with the aromatic refinement of mountain Nebbiolo.

Vintage Details

The 2023 vintage in Valtellina was characterized by a balanced climate: cold but not extreme winters and a summer with a regular rhythm, which favored a complete ripening of the grapes. The harvest, carried out manually between late September and early October, allowed only the best bunches to be selected, with an excellent balance between sugars, acidity, and tannin.

Vinification and aging

The fermentation of Valtellina Rosso DOC 'Matteo Bandello' 2023 - Luca Faccinelli takes place at controlled temperatures, with a maceration (i.e., the skin contact in the must) conducted at low temperatures to enhance the fruity aromas and maintain the wine's finesse. This is followed by a period of aging in French oak barrels for 7-10 months: the wood gently integrates the tannins and enriches the aromatic bouquet without overpowering its freshness.

Tasting Notes

The “Matteo Bandello” 2023 stands out for its harmony and drinkability, qualities that make it a red with immediate yet not trivial appeal.

Color

Visually, it presents a bright ruby red with garnet reflections, typical of Valtellina Nebbiolo, indicating youth and vitality.

Nose

The aroma is fine and intense, with notes of cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry, enriched by floral hints of violet and light spicy nuances of pink pepper. The overall impression is fresh, direct, and pleasantly aromatic.

Palate

On the palate, it reveals a slender yet well-structured body. The tannin (the natural substance that provides astringency and structure) is delicate and soft, perfectly balanced by good acidity that extends the persistence of the sip. The finish is savory and clean, with a pleasant mineral note.

Food pairings for Valtellina Rosso DOC 'Matteo Bandello' 2023 - Luca Faccinelli

Thanks to its versatility and balanced profile, this wine pairs with a wide range of dishes. It is an ideal companion for mountain cuisine as well as simple traditional Italian dishes. Perfect for:

• Appetizers of Valtellina cured meats and semi-aged cheeses
• Flavorful first courses such as pizzoccheri, mushroom risottos, or lasagna
• White and red meats that are not too heavy
• Dishes based on light game or rabbit

Its balance also makes it excellent to enjoy on its own, as a social wine or as an aperitif with platters and snacks.

Storage and aging: how to store Valtellina Rosso DOC 'Matteo Bandello' 2023 - Luca Faccinelli

To best appreciate its fresh and fruity profile, it is recommended to consume Valtellina Rosso DOC 'Matteo Bandello' 2023 - Luca Faccinelli within 3-5 years of harvest. However, proper storage can allow for interesting evolution over time.

• Ideal storage temperature: approximately 14-16°C (57-61°F), away from light and heat sources.
• Position: bottle laid horizontally, to keep the cork moist.
• Serving: serve at 16-18°C (61-64°F), preferably aerated for a few minutes before tasting.

Over the years, the wine may develop more mature and complex notes, maintaining its typical elegance and drinkability, distinctive traits of Luca Faccinelli's style.