“Cinque Stelle” Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG 2022 · 6 bottles in OWC

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

04012422 · 4,5 l · 86,22 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping5 units available

In 1956, Nino Negri became the first winery in Valtellina to embark on an experiment: Nebbiolo grapes, naturally dried in the same way as for Amarone, were to produce a red wine of unprecedented concentration and power. Within a few years, this experiment had become a model for the entire region. In 1983, Casimiro Maule, Oenologist estate's Oenologist since 1971, refined this tradition into the modern Cinque Stelle – named after the highest rating that a vintage's grapes must achieve in order to be considered for this wine at all.

The grapes come from the steepest, best-exposed plots of Inferno, Grumello and Fracia – the estate's exclusive cru – on terraces between 400 and 450 metres, accessed via drystone walls that allow cultivation by hand only. Only a portion of the harvest is selected for the Cinque Stelle and dried for three months in well-ventilated "fruttai", swept by the characteristic Valtellina Föhn. Vinification involves a long maceration period, followed by sixteen months in new French barriques and a further six months in the bottle.

A deep, garnet-coloured ruby red. On the nose, dried fruit, preserved red cherries, vanilla and menthol, accompanied by cocoa, pepper and sweet spices. On the palate, it is dense and velvety, underpinned by great richness and power, with a long, spicy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy and fresh with milk chocolate, vibrant strawberries, red cherries, tar and violet candy. Full-bodied, showing firm, austere tannins, crisp acidity and velvety depth. Warming yet balanced. Long and polished. Drink or hold." James Suckling