Anyone who thinks that no prickly pears grow in the north of Italy has never been to the Valtellina. The Valtellina - as it is called in German - lies on the border to Switzerland in northern Lombardy and looks back on a wine-growing tradition that is over 2,000 years old. Sheltered by the Rhaetian Alps, the vines here thrive in an optimally sunny southern exposure and benefit from the warm breezes of nearby Lake Como. Surprisingly, despite the northern location, some summers in Valtellina reach a heat index comparable even to that of the island of Pantelleria off the North African coast - which certainly explains the presence of Mediterranean flora. (...)
Apart from Piedmont, Valtellina is the only wine region whose production is dominated by Nebbiolo. Due to its late-ripening nature, the red grapes are often still far too unripe in the hottest part of summer, making the demanding Nebbiolo one of the few varieties that can ripen optimally in this region. Compared to Barolo or Barbaresco, most –wines have a much softer, filigree structure thanks to a lively acidity and - especially with age - much gentler tannins. (...)
Italy's northernmost wine region now has around 50 producers, including pioneers such as the Nino Negri winery, founded in 1897, and courageous lateral entrants like Cristina Scarpellini of Tenuta Scerscé. In view of the cost-intensive cultivation, these wines ultimately have a price-pleasure –compared to their Piedmontese counterparts that will absolutely delight you.
Curious now? As usual, you will find our complete portrait of this extraordinary wine region incl. the wonderful wines on our pages. SUPERIORE.DE
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