Valtellina DOC is a Nebbiolo-based red wine from the Valtellina region in Lombardia (Lombardy), Italy. Areas in Valtellina designated Superiore DOCG comprise the crus of Grumello, Inferno, Maroggia, Sassella, and Valgella). The Triacca winery says (link here) ‘the vineyard for Valtellina Superiore DOC/DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata comprises around 800 hectares of slopes on the Rhaetian side of Valtellina. Nebbiolo, called Chiavennasca locally, is the dominant variety. Average harvest 4.5 million bottles.’

Terroir: ‘The Valtellina is a narrow valley of glacial origin created by the river Adda. The valley runs for 75 miles (120km) from east to west, from the Stelvio Pass to Lake Como into which it empties. On either side are (protective) alpine ranges, the Alpi Retiche to the north and the Alpi Orbie to the south. The valley runs parallel to a chain of the Alps and enjoys a unique microclimate. This is because it is ‘one of the few lateral valleys fortunate enough to catch the sun all day long,’ says Julian Cowan-Hill. Dry-stone walls are needed to prevent erosion. Soils are poor, composed of flaked granite,’ (Source: Arpepe website).

Wineries

Certified organic: Casa Vinicola Triacca. | La Gata.

No certification: Arpepe. | Nino Negri.