ARPEPE Sassella Riserva Nuova Regina 2018

Ar.Pe.Pe. is one of the great traditional names of Valtellina, in the mountains of northern Lombardy near the Swiss border, where Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca, grows on steep south-facing terraces. The Nuova Regina vineyard sits at around 450 metres on terrain where rock prevails over soil, the broken granite and sand giving the wine its mineral cut and helping Nebbiolo retain freshness. The cool alpine climate and wide swing between warm days and cold nights give a long, slow ripening that preserves high acidity and fine, firm tannins. After fermentation the wine ages for 34 months in large old barrels and clay jars, a long, gentle maturation that softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit transparent rather than adding oak flavour. The colour is pale garnet, typical of Nebbiolo. The nose shows red cherry and raspberry with rose, tobacco, leather and a stony, earthy depth. The palate is firm and elegant, with bright acidity, fine grippy tannin and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees with game and mountain dishes.