Vigneto Fracia 2017, Nino Negri, Valtellina Superiore DOCG

Bright ruby colour with garnet highlights; complex nose with notes of dog rose and violet, followed by spicy hints such as cloves and lavender. Dry and vigorous on the palate.

The Fracia Vineyard became part of the property of Nino Negri in 1897, since which time it has come to represent one of the historic vineyards of Valtellina. Situated west of the Valgella sub-zone in a mountainous area featuring considerable temperature swings.

After a winter exceptionally free of snow, an early rise in temperatures at the start of spring
accelerated bud break. A frost in May meant that production was reduced by 20% offset
by exceptional quality not seen since 1989 and 2001. Late spring was dry and summer hot
and humid. Rain at the start of September meant, however, healthy ripening. The October
harvest witnessed a great deal of windy days favouring excellent results. The bunches were picked at the end of October to boost the sugar concentration and maturation of tannins in the berries. The grapes were traditionally fermented in temperaturecontrolled vessels (24°C- 28°C) for 8 days. Following that, ageing takes place for two years, of which one was in wood.