ARPEPE Grumello Riserva Buonconsiglio 2018

Ar.Pe.Pe. works some of the finest terraces in Valtellina, a steep Alpine valley in northern Lombardy where Nebbiolo, called Chiavennasca here, ripens against the mountain sun. This Riserva comes from the Grumello subzone, whose sandy, granitic soils drain quickly and give a bright, high-toned style of Nebbiolo with firm structure. The estate farms respectfully and is known for long, patient ageing. The Buonconsiglio spends thirty-four months in large old casks and jars, an extended oxidative ageing that tames Nebbiolo's grip, shifts the colour towards garnet and builds savoury, tertiary complexity. Nebbiolo naturally carries high acidity and firm tannin, and the altitude and diurnal range of Valtellina hold that freshness through ripening. The colour is pale garnet. The nose is layered, with red cherry and red berries over rose, dried herbs, tobacco and a note of liquorice. The palate is elegant and savoury, with high acidity, fine tannins and a long, earthy finish. Serve at seventeen to eighteen degrees, decanted, in a Burgundy glass. It is built for braised meat, game and aged cheese.