What kind of wine is Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Il Glicine' 2022 - Sandro Fay

The Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Il Glicine' 2022 - Sandro Fay is an elegant red wine with an authentic character, a true expression of Valtellina, in Lombardy. It is made from Chiavennasca grapes (local name for Nebbiolo), grown on stone terraces and dry-stone walls in the Sassella subzone, one of the most suitable for the production of Valtellina Superiore.

The “Il Glicine” vineyard, from which it takes its name, covers about one hectare at an altitude of 470 meters, with a south-facing exposure that ensures optimal grape ripening. The sandy, mineral-rich soil gives the wine a fine and refined profile, with a natural freshness that defines its agile yet decisive body.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by balanced weather, with a warm but not excessive summer and excellent temperature fluctuations between day and night. The grapes reached perfect ripeness, ensuring a contained but remarkably high-quality yield. This combination resulted in a harmonious wine, capable of combining intensity and drinkability.

Winemaking and aging

After manual harvesting, the grapes are vinified in stainless steel with controlled fermentation that preserves the fruit's fragrance. Maceration on the skins lasts about 10-12 days, promoting the delicate extraction of color and tannins. This is followed by malolactic fermentation – a natural process that softens acidity – also carried out in stainless steel. Subsequently, the wine ages for 12 months in oak barriques, where it develops complexity and roundness, while maintaining the typical alpine freshness of Valtellina Nebbiolo.

Tasting Notes

The Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Il Glicine' 2022 - Sandro Fay stands out for its elegance and depth. Every stage of the tasting tells the story of the mountains, the sun, and the stone that characterize Sassella.

Color

It has a luminous ruby red color, with garnet reflections that anticipate an elegant evolutionary maturity typical of mountain Nebbiolo.

Nose

On the nose, it is fine and inviting. Scents of small red fruits – raspberry, cherry, and redcurrant – intertwine with light floral nuances, hints of alpine herbs, and a spicy note of sweet wood. With evolution, notes of licorice and undergrowth emerge.

Palate

On the palate, it is balanced and of medium structure. The fine, well-integrated tannins accompany a lively freshness that prolongs the drinking experience. The sip is harmonious, with an elegant persistence and a finish that reveals minerality and cleanliness.

What dishes to pair with Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Il Glicine' 2022 - Sandro Fay

This wine is extremely versatile in its pairings and expresses itself best with traditional Valtellina dishes or with regional Italian cuisines rich in authentic flavors. Excellent with both simple dishes and more elaborate preparations.

• Meat eaters: grilled red meats, braised meats, roasts.
• Mountain cuisine: pizzoccheri, sciatt, semi-aged cheeses.
• Everyday dishes: risottos, tagliatelle with ragu, roasted poultry.

Served at a temperature of 16-18°C, it finds its ideal balance, enhancing the aromas and finesse of the sip.

Storage and aging – how to store Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Il Glicine' 2022 - Sandro Fay wine

To maintain its qualities, the Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Il Glicine' 2022 - Sandro Fay should be stored in a cool place, away from light, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and controlled humidity. It is best kept horizontally, to keep the cork consistently moist.

While offering great enjoyment now, this wine is also suitable for those who wish to appreciate its evolution over time. Stored with care, it can age for 8-10 years, developing more complex aromas and tertiary nuances that speak of the nobility of Valtellina Nebbiolo.