What kind of wine is Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Ultimi raggi' 2018 - Arpepe

The Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Ultimi raggi' 2018 - Arpepe is a mountain red wine that authentically represents Valtellina and the Alpine Nebbiolo, locally known as Chiavennasca. It comes from the terraced vineyards of Sassella, one of the most renowned subzones of the Valtellina Superiore DOCG appellation, where the sunny exposure and metamorphic rock soils give the wines elegance and vivacity.

Produced with a slight over-ripening of the grapes directly on the vine, this wine harks back to the Valtellina tradition that leads to sfursat, a natural drying technique that concentrates aromas and structure. The result is an intense, enveloping, and profound red, capable of combining power and finesse, two elements that define Arpepe's unique style.

Vintage Details

The 2018 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate, with warm but never extreme summers and a dry autumn that favored a gradual and complete ripening of the grapes. The harvest took place late, allowing the bunches to benefit from the "last rays" of sun – hence the wine's name – ensuring a perfect balance between sugars, acidity, and delicate tannins. This balance is reflected in a harmonious, brilliant, and energetic wine.

Winemaking and Aging

After harvesting, the grapes are vinified with extreme care. Fermentation occurs in wooden vats in contact with the skins, slowly extracting color, aromas, and structure. This is followed by a long maceration and aging in large oak barrels for several years, where the wine slowly evolves, gaining complexity and softness. A further period in the bottle completes the maturation, ensuring a perfectly balanced wine ready for tasting at the time of sale.

Tasting Notes

The Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Ultimi raggi' 2018 - Arpepe is a wine of great charm, captivating with its expressiveness and the combination of alpine elegance and Nebbiolo's depth.

Color

It presents a luminous garnet red color, typical of mountain Nebbiolo, with orange reflections that indicate the beginning of its evolution.

Nose

The nose reveals enveloping notes of ripe red fruits, kirsch, and raspberry, followed by hints of alpine herbs, fine spices, and a delicate balsamic nuance. The bouquet is complex yet always refined, with a freshness that invites tasting.

Palate

On the palate, it is warm, structured, and very elegant. The tannins are velvety yet present, a distinctive mark of mountain Nebbiolo, while the finish is long and harmonious. The balance between body, acidity, and softness makes it a deep yet always enjoyable wine.

Food Pairings for Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Ultimi raggi' 2018 - Arpepe

This wine is best enjoyed with dishes of strong yet balanced flavor. Its elegance and structure pair perfectly with mountain cuisine and Lombard tradition.

• Grilled red meats or braised dishes
• Feathered or furred game
• Aged cheeses like Bitto and Valtellina Casera
• Risottos with mushrooms or cheese fondue

Also perfect as a meditation wine, to be savored slowly to appreciate all its aromatic nuances and gustatory depth.

Storage and Aging: How to Store Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Ultimi raggi' 2018 - Arpepe

This mountain Nebbiolo is a wine that evolves beautifully over time. To preserve it best, it is advisable to store bottles horizontally in a cool place, with a constant temperature around 12-14°C and controlled humidity. Keeping the wine away from light and vibrations preserves its integrity.

Thanks to its structure and natural acidity, the Valtellina Superiore Sassella DOCG 'Ultimi raggi' 2018 - Arpepe can be stored for over 10-15 years, progressively developing more complex aromas and an increasingly fine and harmonious gustatory texture.