What kind of wine is Valtellina Superiore Valgella Riserva DOCG 'Carterìa' 2019 - Sandro Fay

The Valtellina Superiore Valgella Riserva DOCG 'Carterìa' 2019 - Sandro Fay is an elegant expression of mountain Nebbiolo, the symbolic grape variety of Valtellina. It is made from grapes grown in terraced vineyards located in the municipality of Teglio, at about 500 meters above sea level, on sandy soils that give the wine finesse and depth. It is a red with character, capable of combining freshness, delicate aromas, and remarkable complexity, perfect for those who love elegant wines with a significant structure.

Vintage Details

The 2019 vintage in Valtellina was balanced and consistent, with moderate temperatures and excellent diurnal temperature variation. These conditions favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes, resulting in an expressive and harmonious Nebbiolo. The result in the glass is a wine of great balance, where freshness and fruit ripeness blend naturally.

Vinification and aging

The production process of Valtellina Superiore Valgella Riserva DOCG 'Carterìa' 2019 - Sandro Fay reflects the artisanal philosophy of the winery. After manual harvesting, the grapes undergo alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, where the must comes into contact with the skins, a phase called maceration, which serves to extract color and tannins. This is followed by malolactic fermentation – a natural process that softens the acidity – and aging for about 12 months in oak barrels of different capacities (500 liters and 30 hl). The wine then rests in the bottle before release, developing elegance and complexity.

Tasting Notes

A wine that speaks of mountains and territory with a refined, authentic, and highly personal style.

Color

In the glass, it presents a luminous garnet red color, with transparent and vibrant reflections, typical of Valtellina Nebbiolo.

Nose

The aroma is fine and complex: notes of ripe red fruits, dried rose petals, light spices, and a balsamic hint reminiscent of mountain herbs can be perceived. Over time in the glass, hints of toasted hazelnut and a slight earthy note emerge, a sign of well-integrated aging.

Palate

On the palate, it shows an elegant structure, with well-polished tannins and a freshness that provides smoothness. The finish is long and harmonious, with a savory and mineral persistence that recalls the Valgella terroir. A wine of balance and finesse, suitable even for less experienced palates who want to discover the nuances of high-altitude Nebbiolo.

Food Pairings for Valtellina Superiore Valgella Riserva DOCG 'Carterìa' 2019 - Sandro Fay

This wine lends itself to numerous pairings, thanks to its elegant yet decisive profile. It is perfect with traditional Alpine dishes, red meats, or aged cheeses. Some suggestions:

• Valtellina pizzoccheri or porcini mushroom risottos
• Beef tagliata or roasted meats
• Alpine cheeses like Bitto or aged Casera
• Light game dishes, such as roe deer or guinea fowl

Served at cellar temperature, around 16-18°C, it fully expresses its aromatic complexity and gustatory balance.

Storage and aging: how to store Valtellina Superiore Valgella Riserva DOCG 'Carterìa' 2019 - Sandro Fay wine

To best appreciate this wine, it is important to store it in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and controlled humidity levels. The bottles should be kept horizontally, so that the cork always remains in contact with the wine, preventing unwanted oxidation.

Thanks to its structure and the natural acidity of Nebbiolo, Valtellina Superiore Valgella Riserva DOCG 'Carterìa' 2019 - Sandro Fay has excellent aging potential: it can be enjoyed immediately, but also stored for 6-10 years, during which time it will develop further aromatic complexities and greater harmony on the palate.