What kind of wine is Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva DOCG 'Red edition' 2020 - Plozza?

Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva DOCG 'Red edition' 2020 - Plozza is made from Nebbiolo grapes, locally known as Chiavennasca, grown on the renowned terraces of the Sassella area, one of Valtellina's most prestigious subzones. These sun-drenched, difficult-to-cultivate slopes yield an authentic wine, a pure expression of its terroir. Full-bodied yet balanced, it stands out for its natural elegance and its ability to evolve over time. This bottle tells the story of Plozza winery's dedication to enhancing Valtellina tradition through a modern approach that respects the raw material.

Vintage details

The 2020 vintage in Valtellina was characterized by a balanced climate that allowed for optimal grape ripening. Sunny days and significant day-night temperature variations favored aromatic concentration and tannin quality, giving the wine a harmonious structure and an intense aromatic profile.

Winemaking and aging

After a manual harvest of grapes from the most suitable vineyards in the Sassella area, fermentation takes place in steel tanks with a two-week maceration on the skins, necessary to extract color, aromas, and complexity. This is followed by an aging period that includes 6-8 months in French oak barriques, complemented by two years of rest in large oak barrels. This double aging in wood allows the wine to develop evolved notes, balance, and a fine tannic structure, ensuring a result of great elegance and depth.

Tasting notes

Color

Visually, Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva DOCG 'Red edition' 2020 - Plozza presents a luminous and brilliant garnet red, a sign of Nebbiolo's maturity and typicality.

Nose

The aromatic profile is rich and multifaceted: notes of ripe red fruits, cherry, and plum emerge, accompanied by hints of sweet spices, vanilla, and slight balsamic nuances derived from the wood aging. With oxygenation in the glass, it opens up to subtle hints of tobacco and undergrowth.

Taste

On the palate, it is complete and refined. The tannins, present but velvety, support a balanced structure that pleasantly balances freshness and softness. The persistence is long and harmonious, with an elegant finish reminiscent of red fruit and spices.

Food pairings for Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva DOCG 'Red edition' 2020 - Plozza

This mountain red wine lends itself to many pairings thanks to its versatility and aromatic depth. It is ideal with:

• red meat dishes, such as traditional Lombard braised meats or roasts;
• feathered or furred game, accompanied by light sauces;
• aged and flavorful cheeses, such as Bitto or Casera;
• risottos with mushrooms or autumnal truffle-based preparations.

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

Storage and aging: how to store Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva DOCG 'Red edition' 2020 - Plozza

To properly store Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva DOCG 'Red edition' 2020 - Plozza, it is recommended to keep it in a cool, dark environment at a constant temperature of around 14-16°C, with controlled humidity and the bottle in a horizontal position to keep the cork moist. Thanks to its structure and long wood aging, it can evolve for several years, gaining aromatic complexity and roundness on the palate. It is a wine that can be enjoyed today for its elegance, but it promises pleasant surprises after an additional 5-8 years in the cellar.