Valtellina Superiore Inferno Sesto Canto Riserva 2018

What kind of wine it is

The Valtellina Superiore Inferno Sesto Canto Riserva is a Lombard red of great rigour, crafted by Ar.Pe.Pe. This profound interpretation of Valtellina Superiore Inferno is made from Nebbiolo grapes, a variety locally known as Chiavennasca. The profile is taut and austere, enlivened by a marked freshness and a grippy tannin. The bouquet reveals a fascinating interplay of spicy notes, small red fruits, hibiscus, chinotto and rhubarb, enriched by aromatic herbs and penetrating notes of scorched earth.

Where it comes from

The roots of this wine lie in a context of heroic viticulture within the Valtellina Superiore area, where the steep slopes demand rigorous manual work. The vines grow at 450 metres above sea level, on the third hairpin bend of the steep road known as the Circuito dell’Inferno. Here, the mountain climate with its Alpine character is crucial for preserving the vibrant acidity and the typical tannic structure of Nebbiolo. The wine’s name pays homage to Dante’s narrative, fully reflecting the agricultural identity of the Ar.Pe.Pe. family, guardians of these historic Valtellina terraces for over a century.

How it is produced

The bunches, harvested at the beginning of November, undergo a long maceration on the skins for eighty-six days in wooden vessels. This targeted extraction is followed by a slow ageing of thirty-four months, divided between steel and chestnut barrels, concluding with a prolonged rest before release. Such rigorous cellar choices forge a typical garnet hue and a taut and persistent palate. Thanks to its solid structural integrity, enhanced by prior decanting, it pairs precisely with game dishes, cuts of beef, lamb and mature cheeses.