Dirupi Valtellina DOCG
In Alpine Lombardy, Nebbiolo Turns Toward Ethereal Burgundy
July 17, 2024
Valtellina is in Lombardy by the Italian-Swiss border just east of Lake Como There, Nebbiolo, Chiavennasca in the local dialect, grows on steep stone terrace vineyards on alpine mountainsides. The grape has local devotees who produce this fantastic wine . Once you try a glass, you will never forget Valtellina, it is that good.
The founders of the Dirupi winery, Pierpaolo Di Franco and Davide Fasolini, are childhood friends who crossed paths again at university enology school. On graduation, they combined their small resources to rent 15 terraced sites devoted to Chiavennasca in Valtellina. On meeting Davide a decade ago and first trying his wines, I thought his Nebbiolo was fantastic. The wine had a wonderful, seamless structure with vibrant fruit notes that took it to an ethereal level. I am excited to introduce this wine, and I am confident it will be enjoyed by those who love Italian reds.
2022 Dirupi Ole Rosso di Valtellina DOC
The entry point into the Dirupi range has loads to like. It’s 100% Nebbiolo from all 17 of their vineyards. Aroma: The delicate floral aromatics are all classically Nebbiolo combined with the strawberry, cranberry, and rose petals Nebbiolo drinkers will recognize from Piedmont counterparts and have come to love. Mouth: The palate is mid-weighted and brimming with vibrant acidity, powdery tannins, sweet red fruits, spice, and dried herbs—a fresh and pure wine with a strong regional identity. Valtellina needs to be on your must-have list after trying this. Very Good Plus $29.99, Case $25.49
Taking up the Italian Wine Mantle from Peter
In a belated introduction: onß Peter’s retirement, I joined Federal Wine & Spirits with ten years of experience in the wine industry, seven years as a retail wine buyer, with a certificate in Wines Studies from Boston University and certifications as a French Wine Scholar and Italian Wine Specialist. Like Peter, I have a strong passion for Italian wines. Years ago, I was bitten by the wine bug from the Italian variety. Although I appreciate all great wine regions, I genuinely get excited about Italian wine.
Please ask me questions or send me sourcing requests for great Italian wines.
Cin Cin,
Richard Harmer
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