Sassella “Stella Retica” (2017) - Ar.Pe.Pe.

The name “Stella Retica” evokes the constellation that once guided climbers in the valley and the history of the Rhaetian peoples. Sassella is one of the five most prestigious subzones of Valtellina (along with Grumello, Inferno, Maroggia and Valgella) and is characterised by heroic terracing with a southern aspect and centuries-old dry-stone walls. Ar.Pe.Pe. is considered the foremost interpreter of traditional Valtellina Nebbiolo.

The appellation: Valtellina Superiore DOCG

Valtellina Superiore DOCG is one of the most fascinating and distinctive appellations in Italy, a symbol of heroic Alpine viticulture. Here Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca, is grown on steep dry-stone terraces along the Rhaetian side of the valley, giving rise to wines of great elegance, finesse and longevity.

What to eat with Sassella “Stella Retica”

Who makes it: Ar.Pe.Pe.

In Valtellina, where viticulture is heroic by definition, Ar.Pe.Pe. represents one of the most authentic and rigorous expressions of mountain Nebbiolo. A winery that has made time, patience and faithfulness to the land its stylistic signature, giving rise to subtle, deep and remarkably long-lived wines.

The vine of Sassella “Stella Retica”

Nebbiolo

Nebbiolo is one of the greatest black grape varieties in the world and the pride of Piedmont, capable of producing wines of extraordinary elegance, complexity and longevity. It is the basis of Barolo and Barbaresco, but also of many other noble appellations of northern Italy. The name may derive from “nebbia” (fog), because of the waxy bloom that covers the ripe berries or because of the often late harvest, between October and November, when the fogs wrap the hills of the Langhe.

Sassella “Stella Retica”: the area of Valtellina

Climate: Alpine

Altitude: Mid Altitude (500-800 m above sea level)

Soil: Rocky / granite

Geographical setting: Valley

Profile of Sassella “Stella Retica”

Primary aromas: Berries, Rose, Violet

Secondary aromas: Alpine herbs, minerals, Pepper, Spices, Black tea

Tertiary aromas: Leather, Dry leaves, Resin, Undergrowth, Tobacco

Tasting notes: A bright, transparent garnet red colour. The nose shows extreme finesse: dried flowers, citrus, mountain herbs, delicate spices. The palate is elegant, taut and quick: dense but fine tannin, vibrant acidity, a medium-light body with great aromatic depth. The finish is very long, savoury and mineral, with the typical “alpine” imprint of Sassella.