Nino Negri Valtellina Sfursat Carlo Negri 2017

WE: Underbrush, incense, date and crushed mint aromas slowly appear on this brawny red. Despite the hefty alcohol, the concentrated, port-like palate also boasts finesse, featuring steeped prune, licorice, tobacco and fruitcake alongside polished, velvety tannins. Drink through 2029.

CdB: 100% Nebbiolo. Selection of the grapes began in the second half of September and was completed at the end of the month. The grapes were allowed to dry naturally in boxes where they lost between 30 and 35% of their weight. We vinified the grapes in January in a temperature-controlled vinifier with prolonged maceration (16 days). After a period in steel containers, the wine was transferred to 32 and 52 hl French oak barrels for 30 months. A well-pronounced and complex ethereal perfume, with dominant spicy notes (clove, cinnamon, pepper) and with hints of plum jam. A dry, warm, savoury, austere and harmonious flavour with an elegant quite persistent underlying taste of toasted hazelnut and liquorice.