A guide to Valtellina wine region

Steeped in history and blessed with breathtaking landscapes, Valtellina is a true paradise for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you wind your way through terraced vineyards, ancient stone walls, and charming alpine villages, you’ll be captivated by the region’s enchanting beauty and extraordinary wines.

 

Valtellina is renowned for producing some of Italy’s most exceptional red wines, with a special focus on the noble Nebbiolo grape, locally known as Chiavennasca. These wines showcase the region’s unique terroir, characterized by its high-altitude vineyards, dramatic slopes, and cool alpine climate. As you sip on a glass of velvety Valtellina Superiore or the highly prized Sforzato, you’ll be treated to a symphony of flavors and aromas, reflecting the passion and dedication of the winemakers who call this region home.

 

The allure of Valtellina extends beyond its vineyards, offering visitors a wealth of cultural and outdoor experiences. Wander through the cobbled streets of picturesque towns like Sondrio and Tirano, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and sample mouthwatering local cuisine. Adventure seekers will be spoilt for choice, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and cycling through the stunning alpine scenery.

 

So, why wait any longer? Embark on a journey to the Valtellina Appellation, where the majestic Alps meet the world of fine wines, and experience the magic of this captivating region for yourself.

Quick access
Best vineyards of the Valtellina wine region
About Valtellina wines
Best wineries in Valtellina to visit
Valtellina wine region highlights:
  • Alpine: Stunning mountain scenery and cool-climate vineyards.
  • Terraced Vineyards: Unique landscape with vineyards carved into steep slopes.
  • Nebbiolo Excellence: Known for producing high-quality Nebbiolo wines.

Overview of the Valtellina wine region

Valtellina is a picturesque appellation situated in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Here’s a closer look at its rich history and culture, what the appellation is known for, weather patterns, and getting around.

 

History and Culture

Valtellina has a long and storied history, dating back to the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, the region has been shaped by various influences, including the Lombards, the Grisons, and the Austrian Habsburgs. This blend of cultures has resulted in a unique identity, with a distinct local dialect, traditional costumes, and culinary specialties. The region’s rich history is also reflected in its architecture, with ancient castles, Romanesque churches, and elegant palaces dotting the landscape.

 

What the Appellation is Known For

Valtellina is renowned for producing some of Italy’s finest wines, particularly its reds made from the Nebbiolo grape, which is locally known as Chiavennasca. The steep slopes, high altitudes, and cool climate of Valtellina provide the ideal conditions for the cultivation of this noble grape, resulting in wines with complex aromas, deep color, and a distinctive minerality. The appellation produces a range of red wines, from lighter, easy-drinking wines to full-bodied and robust styles, including the highly prized Sforzato.

 

Weather

Valtellina experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and mild summers. The high altitude of the vineyards results in cool temperatures, providing the ideal conditions for cultivating the Nebbiolo grape. The region is also known for its significant diurnal temperature variation, with warm days and cool nights contributing to the development of the grapes’ complex flavors.

 

Travel and Getting Around

Valtellina is accessible via several airports, including Milan and Bergamo. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a train to one of the appellation’s charming towns or villages. Once in the region, getting around is relatively easy, with a network of local buses and trains connecting the main towns and villages. Driving is also an option, though visitors should be prepared for narrow and winding roads, particularly in mountainous areas.

Unique places to visit in the Valtellina wine region

Valtellina is a true paradise for wine enthusiasts, with its steep vineyards, high altitude, and unique terroir producing some of Italy’s most exceptional red wines. Here are some of the best wine regions and towns to visit in Valtellina to experience the appellation’s outstanding wines:

 

Sondrio:

Sondrio is the capital of the Valtellina region and an excellent starting point for wine lovers. Here, visitors can explore the historic center, including the beautiful Palazzo Sassi de’ Lavizzari, which houses the Civic Museum and an excellent collection of local wines. Sondrio is also home to several wineries, such as La Gatta, Rainoldi, and Conti Sertoli Salis, which offer tastings and tours of their vineyards and cellars.

 

Chiuro:

Located just a few kilometers from Sondrio, Chiuro is a charming town that boasts several wineries and vineyards. The town is known for its full-bodied red wines, made from the Nebbiolo grape, and its aromatic white wines, made from the Chiavennasca grape. Visitors can sample these delicious wines at wineries such as Nino Negri and Sandro Fay, both of which offer guided tours and tastings.

 

Tirano:

Tirano is a beautiful town located in the eastern part of Valtellina, near the Swiss border. Here, visitors can explore the charming historic center, including the beautiful Basilica of Madonna di Tirano, a popular pilgrimage site. Tirano is also known for its excellent wineries, such as Mamete Prevostini, which produces award-winning wines from the Nebbiolo and Chiavennasca grapes.

 

Valgella:

Valgella is a small village situated in the heart of Valtellina and is known for its high-quality wines made from the Chiavennasca grape. The village is home to several wineries, such as Nera Vini, which produces some of the region’s most exceptional wines. Visitors can enjoy tastings and guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, as well as explore the picturesque village.

 

Grosio:

Located in the eastern part of Valtellina, Grosio is a charming medieval town that is known for its excellent wineries. The town is particularly renowned for its Sforzato wines, made from partially dried Nebbiolo grapes, resulting in a unique and intense flavor. Visitors can sample these exceptional wines at wineries such as Triacca, which also offers guided tours of its vineyards and cellars.

Best things to do in Valtellina wine region

Valtellina offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re exploring the region’s stunning natural landscapes, immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage, or enjoying some family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone in Valtellina.

 

Valtellina Bike Trail: This scenic bike trail runs along the Adda River and is a great way for families to explore the region’s beautiful countryside. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it perfect for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

 

Aprica Adventure Park: This outdoor adventure park is located in the town of Aprica and offers a range of activities, including zip-lining, tree-climbing, and rope courses. It is a fun and exciting way for families to explore the region’s natural beauty while getting some exercise.

 

Leolandia: This amusement park is located just outside Milan and is a great day trip for families with young children. It features a range of rides and attractions, including a zoo, a water park, and a miniature Italy exhibit.

 

Wine Tours: No visit to Valtellina would be complete without a wine tour. Visitors can explore the region’s numerous wineries and vineyards, taste exceptional wines, and learn about the local winemaking traditions.

 

Bernina Express: This scenic train ride is a must-do for visitors to Valtellina. The train runs from Tirano to St. Moritz, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, glaciers, and valleys.

 

Valtellina Cheese Trail: This trail is a cheese lover’s dream, with numerous cheese factories and farms along the way. Visitors can sample the region’s famous cheeses, such as Bitto and Casera, and learn about the cheese-making process.

 

Skiing: Valtellina is home to several world-class ski resorts, such as Bormio, Livigno, and Santa Caterina. Visitors can hit the slopes and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

Cultural Attractions: Valtellina is steeped in history and culture, with numerous museums, churches, and historic sites to explore. Some of the highlights include the Palazzo Besta in Teglio, the Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo in Chiavenna, and the Masegra Castle in Sondrio.

Popular wines of
the Valtellina wine region

Valtellina produces a range of red wines, from lighter, easy-drinking wines to full-bodied and robust styles. The appellation’s most famous wine is the Valtellina Superiore, made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, which undergoes a minimum of two years of aging before release. Another standout wine is the Sforzato, made from partially dried Nebbiolo grapes, resulting in a wine with a more intense flavor profile and higher alcohol content.

 

Inferno: This wine takes its name from the steep vineyards where it is produced and is known for its intense aroma and flavor profile. It is made from Nebbiolo grapes and is characterized by its dark ruby color, notes of dark fruit and spice, and a firm tannic structure.

 

Grumello: This wine is another Nebbiolo-based wine that is known for its complex aroma and flavor profile. It is characterized by its ruby color, notes of red fruit and floral aromas, and a hint of earthiness. It is typically aged for at least two years, resulting in a wine with a good structure and ageability.

 

Sassella: This wine is considered the most elegant and refined of Valtellina’s wines, made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in high-altitude vineyards. It is characterized by its ruby color, notes of red fruit, floral aromas, and a hint of minerality. It is aged for at least two years, resulting in a wine with a delicate structure and a long finish.

Rosso di Valtellina: This wine is made from Nebbiolo grapes, but is lighter and more approachable than the appellation’s other wines. It is characterized by its ruby color, notes of red fruit and spice, and a hint of minerality. It is typically aged for at least one year, resulting in a wine that is easy drinking and perfect for everyday occasions.

About Valtellina Wines: Types & Characteristics

Valtellina is renowned for producing some of Italy’s finest wines, particularly its reds made from the Nebbiolo grape, locally known as Chiavennasca. The steep slopes, high altitudes, and cool climate of Valtellina provide the ideal conditions for the cultivation of this noble grape, resulting in wines with complex aromas, deep color, and a distinctive minerality. Let’s take a closer look at the types of wine, grapes, and characteristics of Valtellina’s exceptional wines.

Valtellina Wine Taste Notes & Flavors

Valtellina’s red wines are known for their complex aromas, which range from red fruit and floral notes to spicy and earthy tones. The wines have a deep color, high acidity, and firm tannins, which give them a good structure and age. The wine’s minerality comes from the region’s unique soil, composed of granite and gneiss, which imparts a distinct flavor and texture to the wines.

 

Valtellina’s exceptional wines, made from the Nebbiolo grape, offer a unique and complex flavor profile that reflects the region’s high altitude vineyards, steep slopes, and cool climate. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a novice looking to discover new flavors, a visit to Valtellina’s wineries is a must. Experience the magic of Valtellina’s exceptional wines, steeped in history and tradition, and discover why they are considered among Italy’s finest.

Grape Varieties of Valtellina wines

The Nebbiolo grape is the star of Valtellina’s winemaking, and its distinct characteristics are what sets the region’s wines apart. This grape thrives in Valtellina’s steep vineyards, where the vines are planted at high altitudes and exposed to long hours of sunlight. Other grape varieties grown in Valtellina include the aromatic Moscato Rosa and the fruity Pignola.

Frequently Asked Questions About Valtellina wine region

  • What is Valtellina known for?

    Valtellina is known for its exceptional wines, particularly its red wines made from the Nebbiolo grape. The region is also renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional cuisine.

  • What is the best time to visit Valtellina?

    The best time to visit Valtellina depends on your interests. The region is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit for outdoor activities and hiking is from late spring to early fall (May-September). For skiing and winter sports, the best time to visit is from December to March.

  • What is the cuisine of Valtellina like?

    Valtellina's cuisine is rich and hearty, with a focus on local ingredients such as game meats, cheeses, and buckwheat. Some of the region's most famous dishes include pizzoccheri (a buckwheat pasta with cheese and vegetables), bresaola (cured beef), and sciatt (fried cheese balls).

  • How do I get around Valtellina?

    The best way to get around Valtellina is by car, as the region is spread out and many of the attractions and wineries are located in rural areas. However, there are also buses and trains that connect the major towns and cities in the region.

  • What is the unique terracing technique used in Valtellina's vineyards?

    Valtellina's vineyards are located on steep mountain slopes and are terraced to prevent soil erosion and maximize sun exposure. The terraces are built using dry-stone walls, which are constructed without the use of mortar or cement.

  • What is Bitto cheese, and why is it unique to Valtellina?

    Bitto cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk and is produced exclusively in the Valtellina region. It is aged for a minimum of 70 days and is characterized by its nutty flavor and crumbly texture. Bitto cheese is also unique in that it is made using a traditional technique that involves adding a small amount of goat's milk to the cow's milk.

  • What is the Palio degli Asini, and when does it take place?

    The Palio degli Asini is a traditional donkey race that takes place in the town of Tirano every year on the Sunday after August 15th. The race dates back to the 16th century and is a popular local festival, featuring colorful costumes, music, and food.

  • What is the Sforzato wine, and how is it made?

    Sforzato is a unique red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes that have been dried for several weeks before fermentation. This process, known as appassimento, concentrates the sugars and flavors of the grapes, resulting in a wine that is rich, full-bodied, and high in alcohol content. Sforzato is aged for at least two years in oak barrels, resulting in a wine that is complex and age-worthy.