The history of the Nino Negri winery goes back a long way and is inextricably linked to the oenological evolution of Valtellina. It all began in 1897, when Nino Negri decided to set up a wine business in Chiuro in the province of Sondrio. Growth accelerated in the decades to come; in the post-war period it was one of the most promising wineries in the area. After several changes of ownership, today it has 33 hectares of land in the most prestigious areas including Inferno, Grumello, and Fracia, at the heart of Valgella, with an average annual production of 800,000 bottles. The area's queen grape is a local variant of Nebbiolo called Chiavennasca. Sassorosso is vinified in red with pumping over and délestage, followed by ageing for at least 12 months in medium-sized oak barrels and a small percentage in barriques. It is further refined in the bottle for at least 18 months. The cool microclimate results in a longer growing cycle for Nebbiolo, which is expressed in an intense ruby red colour with light garnet reflections. The complex aroma with floral hints of dog rose and violet evolves into spicy notes such as rosemary and lavender. On the palate, the tannins are well structured, the acidic freshness is well balanced giving a savoury and long finish. An extra year of bottle ageing allows the vigour of this wine to be better balanced. It goes well with all meat based dishes and medium-aged cheeses.
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