Cantina La Spia Valtellina Superiore PG40 Sassella 2011

Winery Background and History

La Spia is a boutique winery situated in the Valtellina region of Lombardy, Italy. The estate’s name, meaning “The Spy,” refers to a rocky outcrop historically used as a lookout point. Acquired by the Rigamonti family in 1962, La Spia has since focused on producing high-quality Nebbiolo wines, locally known as Chiavennasca. The winery emphasizes traditional viticulture methods, cultivating vines on terraced slopes supported by dry-stone walls, a hallmark of the region’s winemaking heritage.

Producer and Wine Maker

La Spia is owned and managed by the Rigamonti family, with Michele Rigamonti at the helm. The winemaking is overseen by Emil Galimberti, who brings a deep understanding of the region’s terroir and a commitment to expressing it through meticulous vineyard management and minimal intervention in the cellar. Their collaborative approach ensures that each bottle reflects the unique characteristics of Valtellina’s alpine environment.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The PG40 is sourced from the Sassella subzone, one of Valtellina’s most esteemed areas. Vines are planted on steep, south-facing terraces at elevations between 350 and 400 meters. The soils are shallow, composed of sand, silt, and limestone, providing excellent drainage. The alpine climate, characterized by significant diurnal temperature variations, contributes to the development of Nebbiolo grapes with vibrant acidity and complex aromatics.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested in late autumn to ensure optimal ripeness. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with maceration lasting approximately 25 days to extract color and tannins. The wine is then aged for 24 months in large French oak barrels, followed by an additional 12 months of bottle aging before release. This regimen allows the wine to develop complexity while maintaining the varietal’s characteristic elegance.

Tasting Notes

The 2011 PG40 exhibits a bright ruby-red color. The nose offers intense aromas of sour cherry, red currant, and hints of dried rose petals, complemented by subtle notes of tobacco and dark chocolate. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with firm yet refined tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors echoing the nose, leading to a long, nuanced finish with a touch of almond.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with rich dishes such as braised lamb shanks, wild mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano. Its acidity and tannic structure also complement hearty stews and roasted game meats. For a traditional pairing, serve alongside Pizzoccheri, a buckwheat pasta dish native to Valtellina.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve the PG40 at 16–18°C (60–64°F) in large Burgundy glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Decanting for at least one hour before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full range of flavors and aromas.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 12–15°C (54–59°F) and moderate humidity. The 2011 PG40 has the structure and balance to age gracefully for up to 15 years from vintage, developing additional tertiary notes of leather, earth, and dried fruit over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Nebbiolo (locally known as Chiavennasca)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%