La Spia MR72 Sassella Riserva 2018

Nestled in the heart of Valtellina, La Spia stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. This young and dynamic company embodies a deep-rooted passion for winemaking, meticulously caring for every vine while embracing modern techniques. It's a philosophy that respects the past's legacy, allowing it to evolve through wise and inventive cellar practices, ultimately crafting wines that are both authentic and forward-thinking.

The genesis of these exceptional wines lies in the sun-drenched Valtellina slopes, where patches of land, painstakingly carved from rock over centuries, are held in place by the skilled art of dry stone walls. These small, terraced vineyards, an ancient and functional system, yield the magnificent grapes that become the Sassella DOCG and Valtellina Superiore DOCG – truly traditional wines. The unique alpine climate and valley orientation create ideal conditions for viticulture, while the predominantly sandy, shallow soils, with their neutral to sub-acid pH, impart a remarkable richness to the musts, translating into wines of unparalleled finesse and elegance. This particular Sassella Riserva, a 100% Nebbiolo, hails from a historic vineyard surrounding the cellar, with grapes meticulously hand-harvested and dried for a few days before a long, 30-day maceration period in steel tanks.

After this careful vinification, the Sassella Riserva undergoes an extensive refinement process, spending approximately 36 months in 10 HL oak barrels. This is followed by a minimum of 24 months of bottle aging, allowing its complex character to fully develop.

When poured, this Nebbiolo masterpiece reveals a captivating ruby red hue. On the nose, it offers an intricate bouquet of dried roses, ripe cherries, and subtle hints of spice, underscored by an earthy minerality that speaks to its terroir. The palate is greeted with a full-bodied and elegant structure, showcasing well-integrated tannins and a persistent finish, where notes of red fruit and a touch of balsamic intertwine, promising a truly memorable tasting experience. Only 2700 bottles of this exquisite Riserva are produced, making it a true Rhaetian gem.