What kind of wine is Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri

Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri is an elegant and authentic red wine, a faithful expression of Nebbiolo (locally called Chiavennasca), the most important grape variety in Valtellina. The Valtellina Superiore DOCG denomination guarantees high quality, resulting from heroic viticulture practiced on the terraced slopes of the Lombard Alps. "Mazér," a local dialect term meaning "good, beautiful, and generous," already hints at its character in its name: a wine with a harmonious, balanced body capable of naturally combining structure and finesse.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage in Valtellina was characterized by a balanced climate, with a warm but not excessive summer and a dry autumn that allowed the grapes to ripen uniformly. The harvest, slightly earlier than average, yielded healthy bunches rich in substance, ideal for obtaining a wine with an intense aromatic profile and good polyphenolic concentration, which is the component responsible for color and structure.

Vinification and aging

The Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri is made from a careful selection of grapes from four sub-zones of Valtellina. A small portion of the bunches is allowed to naturally dry, concentrating aromas and sugars. Vinification is traditional, with red fermentation and prolonged maceration (the contact between skins and must) to extract color, aromas, and soft tannins. The wine then matures for about 16 months in oak barriques, where it refines and acquires elegance and complexity before bottling.

Tasting Notes

A wine that conquers with its balance and completeness, capable of fully expressing the typicality of Valtellina Nebbiolo.

Color

Visually, the Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri presents itself with a luminous ruby red color, tending towards garnet with evolution in the glass, a sign of elegance and maturity.

Nose

The bouquet is fine and complex, with notes of small red fruits like cherry and raspberry, hints of dried violet, and spicy nuances of vanilla and licorice derived from its delicate time in wood. Mineral and balsamic undertones speak of Valtellina's mountain territory.

Taste

On the palate, it is harmonious and velvety, with an elegant structure supported by well-integrated tannins (the substances that give the wine a slightly astringent sensation) and a long, clean finish. The finish is balanced, with a pleasant return of red fruit and sweet spices.

Food Pairings for Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri

Perfect for those seeking a versatile yet characterful red, this wine pairs splendidly with:

• Grilled or roasted red meat dishes
• Medium-aged cheeses, such as Bitto or Casera
• Mushroom or sausage risottos
• Light game or traditional stews

Thanks to its balance, it also pairs well with typical Valtellina dishes like pizzoccheri and sciatt, enhancing their flavor without overpowering it.

Storage and aging: how to store Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri wine

To preserve the qualities of this wine, it is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and controlled humidity. The bottle should be kept horizontally, so that the cork remains moist and ensures a perfect seal.

The Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Mazér' 2022 - Nino Negri is ready to be enjoyed, but those who wish to appreciate its evolution over time can let it age in the cellar for another 6-8 years. Over time, it will develop more complex and rounded notes, offering new emotions with each tasting.