What kind of wine is Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Stella Retica' 2022 - Arpepe

Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Stella Retica' 2022 - Arpepe is an elegant and balanced red wine, produced from Chiavennasca grapes, the local name for Nebbiolo grown on the terraces of Valtellina. This appellation, recognized as DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), is synonymous with excellence and winemaking tradition in Valtellina.

The wine stands out for its medium body and extraordinary aromatic finesse, offering a fresh and taut, yet harmonious drinkability: it is an alpine red that combines character, authenticity, and immediate pleasure.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by a mild and well-ventilated summer, which favored uniform grape ripening and an optimal balance between sugars and acidity. Temperature excursions between day and night contributed to enhancing the aromatic profile of Nebbiolo, resulting in wines of great expressiveness and vibrancy.

Winemaking and Aging

The winemaking of Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Stella Retica' 2022 - Arpepe respects the artisanal philosophy of the Pelizzatti Perego family. After manual harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and ferment spontaneously with indigenous yeasts. Maceration on the skins extends for several weeks in wooden vats, a choice that allows for delicate extraction of color and tannin.

Subsequent aging takes place in large oak barrels for about two years, followed by further rest in the bottle. This slow maturation process harmonizes every component, ensuring the wine's balance and longevity.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a brilliant garnet red color, typical of mountain Nebbiolo, with orange reflections that anticipate its complex evolution.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses a fine and complex bouquet: notes of ripe red fruits, cherry, and raspberry, blend with floral hints of rose and violet. Touches of sweet spices and subtle balsamic nuances then emerge, a distinctive stylistic feature of Sassella.

Taste

On the palate, it is a wine with an elegant profile: the tannin (i.e., the natural substance that gives body and structure) is present but perfectly integrated. Freshness accompanies the entire tasting, making the sip dynamic and persistent. The long and harmonious finish leaves a pleasant mineral and fruity trace.

What dishes to pair with Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Stella Retica' 2022 - Arpepe

Thanks to its balance between elegance and structure, this wine pairs perfectly with numerous traditional Lombard and Italian dishes. Ideal to serve during a dinner with friends or at a tasting dedicated to Valtellina.

• Savory first courses such as Valtellina pizzoccheri or mushroom risottos.
• Grilled red meats or delicate braises.
• Aged mountain cheeses and local cured meats.

Its versatility also makes it perfect to accompany autumnal and convivial dishes based on game or mushrooms.

Storage and aging: how to store Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Stella Retica' 2022 - Arpepe wine

To best preserve its characteristics, this wine should be stored in a cool, dark place without temperature fluctuations. The bottle should remain lying down, so as to keep the cork always moist and ensure a perfect seal over time.

The ideal serving temperature is 16-18°C. While already enjoyable in its youth, Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Stella Retica' 2022 - Arpepe has an aging potential of at least 8-10 years, during which it will develop increasingly complex and fascinating nuances.