Post by jameshoff on Mar 16, 2024 0:54:29 GMT -5
Valtellina, a jewel set in the heart of the Italian Alps, is a place where nature and tradition blend into a unique culinary experience. An area famous for its robust wines and traditional dishes, for its natural products such as apples and for its historical recipes such as pizzoccheri. Wines and vineyards of Valtellina Valtellina is renowned for its wines, in particular Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca. The unique terraced vineyards extend along the mountain slopes, creating a distinctive landscape. The mountain terroir gives Valtellina wines distinctive characteristics: structured, with soft tannins and fruity notes.
Among these, Sforzato di Valtellina and Valtellina DY Leads Superiore are prominent labels. Valtellina viticulture has ancient roots, with evidence dating back to the Roman period. Over time, the region has experienced moments of great commercial fame, particularly with Switzerland, but also periods of crisis. The link with wine production dates back to the year 1000, with the monks who took care of the landscape and consolidated the terracing systems. The 16th century saw a great boost for local viticulture, especially for export to Central Europe. Valtellina has faced several crises, including epidemics such as powdery mildew, downy mildew and phylloxera, but has achieved significant milestones such as the establishment of the Controlled Designation of Origin in 1968 and the recognition of the DOCG for Sforzato in 2003 .
In between, the 1970s represent a crucial moment in the history of Valtellina viticulture: with the increase in wine imports from Northern European countries and the methanol scandal shaking the market, it seems that everything is about to collapse. But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, a new era begins for Valtellina viticulture and its economy. This period marks the transition from mass production to that of very high quality wines. A clear example is Cantina Nobili's Sassella DOCG , a wine made exclusively with Nebbiolo Chiavennasca grapes. Harvested by hand in the third week of October, this wine spends three years in wooden barrels and four months in the bottle.
Among these, Sforzato di Valtellina and Valtellina DY Leads Superiore are prominent labels. Valtellina viticulture has ancient roots, with evidence dating back to the Roman period. Over time, the region has experienced moments of great commercial fame, particularly with Switzerland, but also periods of crisis. The link with wine production dates back to the year 1000, with the monks who took care of the landscape and consolidated the terracing systems. The 16th century saw a great boost for local viticulture, especially for export to Central Europe. Valtellina has faced several crises, including epidemics such as powdery mildew, downy mildew and phylloxera, but has achieved significant milestones such as the establishment of the Controlled Designation of Origin in 1968 and the recognition of the DOCG for Sforzato in 2003 .
In between, the 1970s represent a crucial moment in the history of Valtellina viticulture: with the increase in wine imports from Northern European countries and the methanol scandal shaking the market, it seems that everything is about to collapse. But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, a new era begins for Valtellina viticulture and its economy. This period marks the transition from mass production to that of very high quality wines. A clear example is Cantina Nobili's Sassella DOCG , a wine made exclusively with Nebbiolo Chiavennasca grapes. Harvested by hand in the third week of October, this wine spends three years in wooden barrels and four months in the bottle.