“Cinque Stelle” Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 2021 · MAGNUM in OWC

Nino Negri | Lombardy
Nino Negri S.p.A. | Via Ghibellini 3 | IT 23030 Chiuro

04013021 · 1,5 l · 86,00 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping< 24 units available

A cool spring with little rainfall noticeably delayed the phenological development of the vines in 2021. The summer was changeable, with warm, dry spells alternating with cool, damp ones, but a steady supply of water ensured that the Nebbiolo reached an excellent state of ripeness by the end of September. The harvest began in the last week of September – an average time by the standards of the last twenty years – yet the quality of the grapes proved to be high: marked temperature fluctuations and a rain-free October ensured healthy, concentrated berries.

Only a fraction of the harvest – carefully picked by hand on the steep terraces of Inferno, Grumello and the estate's own Fracia cru – is allowed to dry in the Fruttai for the Cinque Stelle. The Valtellina foehn sweeps through the drying rooms for three months, whilst the grapes lose around thirty% of their weight and concentrate their sugars and aromas. Only then does fermentation begin, with a long maceration period, followed by sixteen months' ageing in new barriques made from French Allier oak and a further six months' bottle ageing.

An intense ruby red with violet highlights. The marked temperature fluctuations just before ripening have given rise to aromas of floral and fruity freshness, underpinned by distinctly prominent spicy notes. Dense and powerful on the palate, with balanced acidity and velvety tannins that showcase the character of this fully ripe Alpine Nebbiolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"A gently shimmering, bright ruby colour with a garnet-red rim. A spicy, inviting bouquet of cherry compote, wild berry jam and juniper, with a hint of clove. A silky attack on the palate, followed by firm tannins; fresh with precise fruit, young but with great potential." Falstaff

"Cola, cherry jelly and blueberries. Medium-bodied with refreshing, well-integrated acidity and ripe, velvety, soothing tannins. A lovely, lingering finish." James Suckling