"Il Pettirosso" Terrazze Retiche di Sondrio 1999

750ml

Overview

Arpepe "Il Pettirosso" Terrazze Retiche di Sondrio 1999 is a captivating expression of Nebbiolo from the renowned Arpepe winery in Italy’s Valtellina region. Produced from the steep terraced vineyards of the Terrazze Retiche di Sondrio, this wine showcases the elegance and complexity that Nebbiolo can achieve with age, particularly in the high-altitude vineyards of Valtellina. The 1999 vintage is an excellent example of how this wine evolves over time, with developed aromas and flavors that speak to its age, while still retaining its vibrant acidity and fresh fruit character.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: As with other vintages of "Il Pettirosso," the 1999 was made using hand-harvested Nebbiolo grapes from the terraced vineyards. The grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks with the use of wild yeasts, allowing for a natural and pure expression of the grape.
• Aging: After fermentation, this wine was aged in large oak casks for 18 months, contributing to its complexity without overwhelming its delicate fruit character. The 1999 vintage, in particular, has benefitted from years of aging in bottle, allowing it to mature and soften, with the oak influence becoming more integrated into the wine.
• Additional Details: "Il Pettirosso" is bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its purity and giving it a more natural, unaltered character over time.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine presents a mature ruby red color with slight brick hues, a reflection of its age and the evolution of the Nebbiolo grape.
• Aroma: The nose is complex and developed, offering aromas of dried red fruits, including cherry and raspberry, along with notes of leather, tobacco, and dried flowers. There is a subtle hint of earthiness, as well as tertiary aromas of herbs, forest floor, and a faint touch of spice, all of which evolve as the wine airs.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with soft, silky tannins that have mellowed over time. The fruit flavors are more concentrated, now tinged with dried fruit and prune notes, while the wine’s acidity remains vibrant, balancing the depth of flavors. A lingering, mineral finish with subtle earthy undertones creates a lasting impression of complexity.

Food Pairing

This wine pairs exceptionally well with rich, flavorful dishes, particularly those with umami-rich or gamey elements. It is an ideal match for roasted meats, braised lamb, or aged cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or pecorino. It also complements earthy dishes like mushroom risotto or truffle-infused pasta.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 16–18°C (61–64°F) to highlight the complexity and elegance of the wine.
• Decanting: Decanting is recommended to allow the wine to open up and fully reveal its layers of aroma and flavor.

Aging Potential

Given its age, the 1999 vintage of "Il Pettirosso" is at its peak, but it still has the potential to age for a few more years, evolving further and deepening in character. It can be enjoyed through 2025, with its aging curve being at a sweet spot of complexity and drinkability.