ARPEPE Sassella Stella Retica Nebbiolo, Valtellina Superiore

High in the Italian Alps, the Pelizzatti Perego family crafts Nebbiolo with a precision that defies the rugged terrain of Valtellina. The Stella Retica is sourced from the Sassella sub-zone, where vines cling to ancient stone terraces on steep, south-facing slopes. These granite soils and the cool mountain air produce a wine of immense clarity and structural integrity, far removed from the heavier styles found further south in Piedmont.

Winemaker Isabella Pelizzatti Perego prioritises patience over technology. The fruit undergoes long maceration in wooden vats before maturing in large "botti" made of traditional chestnut and oak. This slow ageing process allows the tannins to integrate naturally without the aggressive influence of new wood. The result is a wine that arrives in the glass already possessing a sophisticated harmony and a distinct sense of place.

The profile is defined by Alpine freshness. Expect aromas of dried rose petals, mountain herbs, and small red berries. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with firm acidity and a mineral core that reflects its rocky origins. It offers flavours of sour cherry and tobacco, finishing with a persistent, savoury grip. This is a refined choice for those who value elegance and site-specificity over power.