ARPEPE Sassella Riserva Ultimi Raggi 2018

Ar.Pe.Pe. makes Ultimi Raggi in Valtellina, in the alpine north of Lombardy, from Nebbiolo grown at around 600 metres. The wine began in 1999 as Arturo Pelizzatti's experiment to dry the grapes directly on the vine in the vineyard rather than on racks in the cellar, the Valtellina take on the Amarone idea. Leaving the bunches to lose water on the vine concentrates the sugars and flavour while the high-altitude site and steep, stony granite soils keep acidity and tannin firm. The cool mountain climate and wide day-to-night temperature range give a long ripening that builds aromatic complexity. After fermentation the wine ages for 34 months in large vats and barrels, a slow maturation that rounds the tannins through gentle oxygen exchange while letting the fruit stay clear. The colour is pale garnet. The nose shows ripe cherry and blackberry with hints of oak and dried fruit, dried herbs, tobacco and an earthy depth. The palate is firm and structured, with high acidity, fine tannin and a long savoury finish. Serve at 17 degrees with game and rich mountain food.