Valtellina Superiore
About the wine
Valtellina Superiore DOCG represents one of Italy's most dramatic viticultural landscapes, where Nebbiolo—locally known as Chiavennasca—is cultivated on steep, sun-drenched terraced slopes along the Rhaetian Alps in the province of Sondrio. The wine is defined by its high-altitude, cool-climate elegance, offering a distinct profile of ruby-red color that evolves toward garnet, with a persistent, subtle bouquet and a dry, harmonious, and slightly tannic palate. The regulation mandates a minimum of 90% Nebbiolo, allowing for a small percentage of other non-aromatic red grapes. The wine must undergo a minimum of 24 months of aging, including at least 12 months in wood, which helps refine its characteristic structure. Five historic sub-zones—Maroggia, Sassella, Grumello, Inferno, and Valgella—are recognized for their unique microclimates and terroir, often producing wines of exceptional longevity and finesse. It is a quintessential expression of 'heroic viticulture,' where the combination of southern exposure, stone-walled terraces, and significant diurnal temperature shifts creates a wine of remarkable complexity.
Grape varieties
Production & aging
The production zone is located in the province of Sondrio, specifically on the southern-exposed slopes of the Rhaetian Alps along the Adda River. It spans the communes of Buglio in Monte, Berbenno, Castione Andevenno, Sondrio, Montagna, Tresivio, Chiuro, Teglio, Bianzone, and Tirano. The area includes five specific sub-zones: Maroggia, Sassella, Grumello, Inferno, and Valgella, characterized by steep, terraced vineyards supported by extensive dry-stone walls.