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

The Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Quadrio' 2022 - Nino Negri is born in the heart of the Rhaetian Alps, in a territory that combines natural charm and an ancient winemaking tradition. Produced almost exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes (locally called Chiavennasca), this wine represents one of the most authentic expressions of Valtellina. Its elegant and harmonious body reflects the expert hand of the historic winery Nino Negri, capable of combining innovation and respect for the territory. The “Quadrio”, dedicated to the fifteenth-century castle that dominates Chiuro and now houses the company's headquarters, is a wine with a decisive yet accessible character, perfect for those seeking balance between structure and drinkability.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage in Valtellina was characterized by a regular climate, with warm, breezy days and cool nights that favored a balanced grape maturation. Temperature fluctuations helped maintain clear aromas and fine tannins, making the Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Quadrio' 2022 a wine of great expressiveness and vibrancy. The harvest took place manually between late September and early October, selecting only the best-exposed and perfectly ripe bunches.

Winemaking and aging

After harvesting, the grapes are vinified in stainless steel vats at controlled temperatures, to preserve their aromas and freshness. The maceration on the skins – i.e., the contact of the must with the skins, useful for extracting color and structure – lasts about 12 days. This is followed by an 18-20 month period of aging in wood, during which the wine develops balance and softness, enriching itself with spicy nuances without losing its fruity vein typical of Valtellina Nebbiolo.

Tasting Notes

The Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Quadrio' 2022 - Nino Negri is a red wine that captivates with its finesse and perfect balance between freshness and structure.

Color

It presents with a luminous ruby red and garnet reflections, a distinctive sign of the natural evolution of Nebbiolo grown in the mountains.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses a rich and inviting bouquet, with notes of ripe cherry, violet, and sweet spices. Nuances of licorice, light balsamic notes, and a hint of vanilla emerge, resulting from its time in the barrel.

Taste

On the palate, it is elegant and persistent. The tannin – the natural substance in grapes that gives structure to the wine – is present but fine, well integrated into the sip. The finish is long, harmonious, and slightly savory, with a fruity return that invites a second glass.

Food pairings for Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Quadrio' 2022 - Nino Negri

The versatility of "Quadrio" makes it ideal for accompanying numerous Italian dishes. Among the most successful pairings:

• typical first courses from Valtellina, such as pizzoccheri or casoncelli with butter and sage;
• grilled red meats, roasts, and delicate braised dishes;
• cured meats and semi-hard cheeses of medium aging.

Also perfect as a meditation wine, to be enjoyed in good company, it expresses itself best if served slightly oxygenated in the glass.

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

To best preserve the Valtellina Superiore DOCG 'Quadrio' 2022 - Nino Negri, it is advisable to store it in a cool environment, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, away from sources of light and heat. The bottle should be kept horizontally, so that the cork remains constantly moist. Thanks to its balanced structure and well-smoothed tannins, the "Quadrio" can evolve positively for 5-8 years after harvest, developing complexity and aromatic depth over time. Those who choose it today will find an already mature and elegant wine, but with the potential to still deliver emotions in the years to come.