Marco Ferrari Rosso di Valtellina 2024

Rosso di Valtellina is the everyday red of this Alpine valley in Lombardy, and Marco Ferrari makes his from Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca, after starting out in the sparkling region of Franciacorta and turning to the mountains. The grapes grow on the steep stone terraces that define Valtellina, worked by hand on rocky, sandy soils at altitude. The cool mountain climate and the strong diurnal swing slow ripening and preserve the bright acidity and lifted aromatics that mark Nebbiolo from here, giving a lighter, more immediate style than the cru wines. Eight months in barrel, shorter than the Sassella or Inferno, softens the tannin lightly while keeping the wine fresh and fruit-driven. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows red cherry and berry fruit, rose, dried herbs and a touch of white peach. The palate is medium-bodied and crisp, with fine tannin, a peppery, earthy edge and a clean finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, a touch cooler than a fuller red. It suits poultry, pork and mushroom dishes.