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Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Lombardy, northern Italy, lies the Valtellina valley, a region celebrated for its serpentine ribbons of vineyards tracing the rugged mountain slopes. Here, amid the Alpine breezes and the resonant glow of the Mediterranean sun, the renowned Valtellina Rosso DOC finds its genesis.The region's unique topography, characterized by its steep terraces and high-altitude vineyards, creates an environment where vines thrive, extracting depth and character from the mineral-rich soils. This intricate dance between earth and vine results in wines that tell stories; tales of ancient traditions and innovative viticulture.
Central to the character of Valtellina Rosso DOC is its heart and soul – the Nebbiolo grape. Known locally as "Chiavennasca", Nebbiolo is key for wine production in this DOC, a grape variety that, while found elsewhere, discovers a distinctive expression in Valtellina. Its wines showcase an elegance and finesse, with delicate floral aromas intertwined with red fruit notes and often, with age, a profound earthy complexity.In Valtellina, Nebbiolo reveals its versatility and depth, echoing the valley's myriad microclimates.
From the sun-kissed vineyards, the grape yields wines that are both powerful and poised, capturing the essence of a region where nature and tradition coalesce.To sip Valtellina Rosso DOC is to experience a momentary journey; a fleeting passage through the terraced vineyards, embraced by the Alps, serenaded by the winds, and touched by the Italian sun. It's a testament to the harmony of the environment and the undying passion of the region's winemakers.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
The DOC Valtellina Rosso is located in the province of Sondrio, and is part of the Lombardy wine region. Valtellina Rosso is particularly noted for its red wines, made from grapes grown in terraced vineyards at altitudes between 500 and 800 meters above sea level.
This region has a temperate climate, with cool winters and hot summers. Rainfall tends to be scarce, while humidity in the region is in the range of 65% to 80%
The soil is composed of three main elements: about 70% sand, about 18% sand and less than 10% clay. Due to this particular composition, the soil has high permeability.
Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Nebbiolo
In the picturesque Valtellina region of Lombardy, Italy, the Rosso di Valtellina wine reigns as the epitome of elegance and tradition. This exceptional red wine, crafted predominantly from a minimum of 90% Nebbiolo, locally known as Chiavennasca, showcases the true essence of the region's winemaking heritage.
Nebbiolo, the heart and soul of the Rosso di Valtellina DOC, brings forth its renowned charm with alluring aromas of red cherries, violets, and hints of spices. Its graceful tannins and vibrant acidity intertwine to create a wine that embodies both power and finesse. The addition of other authorized non-red grape varieties complements the Nebbiolo's character, adding subtle complexity and balance to the final blend. In the case of Rosso di Valtellina wines crafted with only Nebbiolo grapes, they will showcase softer tannins and higher acidity than other red wines produced with 100% nebbiolo grape. Another characteristic of Rosso di Valtellina wines is that, although they can be aged in oak barrels, usually they are enjoyed young, due to its youthful vibrancy.
The result is a ruby-red elixir that captivates the senses with its enticing bouquet and harmonious flavor profile. As Valtellina's most common red wine, it reflects the terroir's influence, the dedication of skilled winemakers, and the essence of the Nebbiolo grape. When paired with hearty dishes, such as braised meats, aged cheeses, or the region's beloved pizzoccheri pasta, Valtellina Rosso DOC transforms the dining experience into a celebration of Italian culinary art.
Valtellina Rosso DOC serves as a timeless reminder of the region's winemaking legacy, passed down through generations. As wine enthusiasts raise their glasses to savor the velvety texture and pronounced fruitiness, they immerse themselves in the beauty of Valtellina's cherished traditions and the profound connection between the land and its noble grape, Nebbiolo.