Rosso di Valtellina DOC 2020

750ml

Overview

The Arpepe Rosso di Valtellina DOC 2020 is a vibrant and expressive red wine from the renowned Arpepe winery in Italy’s Valtellina region. Crafted primarily from Nebbiolo, locally known as Chiavennasca, this wine highlights the unique terroir of the Alps, where the steep slopes and high altitudes provide ideal conditions for Nebbiolo. The 2020 vintage is fresh, youthful, and dynamic, showcasing the potential of the Rosso di Valtellina DOC to capture the essence of Nebbiolo in its early years while still retaining the hallmark characteristics of structure, acidity, and elegance.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The 2020 Rosso di Valtellina was made from carefully selected Nebbiolo grapes, hand-harvested from the terraced vineyards in Valtellina. The grapes underwent fermentation in stainless steel vats, with wild yeasts, ensuring a natural expression of the grape and region.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine was aged in large, neutral oak barrels for about 12 months, allowing it to develop subtle complexity without overpowering the wine’s fresh, fruity profile. The wine was then bottled and allowed to rest further, contributing to a smoother texture and more integrated flavors.
• Additional Details: The wine is bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its natural purity and ensuring that it reflects the vineyard’s true character.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine presents a bright ruby red color, indicative of its youth and vibrancy, with some slight garnet hues that will deepen with further aging.
• Aroma: The nose is fresh and expressive, with aromas of ripe red fruit such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by floral notes of rose petal and violet. There are hints of herbs, citrus zest, and subtle spice, adding complexity and nuance to the bouquet.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with bright acidity and fresh tannins that provide structure and balance. The fruit flavors are lively, echoing the nose with layers of red fruit, herbs, and a slight minerality. The finish is clean, with a refreshing and slightly savory edge that invites another sip.

Food Pairing

This wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, particularly those that highlight fresh and simple flavors. It is an excellent match for roasted poultry, grilled vegetables, and charcuterie. It also pairs well with pasta dishes, such as spaghetti with tomato sauce, or risotto with mushrooms.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 14–16°C (57–61°F) to allow the fresh, fruity character of the wine to shine while maintaining balance and structure.
• Decanting: Decanting is optional, but allowing the wine to breathe for 20-30 minutes can help enhance its aromatic expression and soften the tannins.

Aging Potential

The ARPEPE Rosso di Valtellina DOC 2020 is best enjoyed in its youth, within the first 5-7 years, while its freshness and bright fruit character are at their peak. However, it does have the potential to age gracefully for a few years, where it will continue to develop additional complexity.