ARPEPE Rosso di Valtellina 2024

ARPEPE Rosso di Valtellina is a red made from Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca, in the Valtellina valley of Lombardy in northern Italy. The family estate has more than 150 years of history, though it was from 1984, under Arturo Pellizzatti Perego, that its Nebbiolo gained international recognition, and his three children continue that work today. The fruit comes from several plots in Valtellina, where vines grow on steep south facing terraces of sandy, free draining soils derived from Alpine rock. The altitude and mountain climate give a wide swing between warm days and cold nights, which slows ripening and locks in the high acidity and fragrance that mark the style. This is the fresh, early drinking expression of the house, fermented and then aged in large old Slavonian oak casks that allow slow oxygen exchange and soften the tannins without adding oak flavour. The wine is pale garnet, with a nose of red cherry, wild berry, dried rose and a tarry, earthy note. The palate is medium bodied and bright, with red currant fruit, fine firm tannins, high acidity and a savoury, mineral finish. Serve at 16 degrees. Good with braised beef and game.