Valtellina Superiore Sassella 'Ultimi Raggi'

Score

95

"A subtle and restrained wine with aromas of crushed stones, red fruit, pepper and elegant flowers. Medium- to full-bodied with graceful tannins, crisp acidity and a tense, polished finish of cherry pits."

Score

94

"Round and creamy, this finely meshed red offers an alluring mix of wild strawberry, blood orange, stone, candied violet and black tea elements. A delicate thread of ground anise, saffron and pink peppercorn brings a zesty, fragrant edge to the juicy fruit flavors, and the satin-edged tannins are elegant but structured on the finish."

Score

93

"This late-harvested Nebbiolo undergoes a light drying of the grapes while still attached to the vines. It's the most full-bodied and structured offering in the winery's line-up, delivering flavors of fleshy Morello cherry, prune and licorice accompanied by firm, close-grained tannins that grip the finish. Born in vineyards 600m above sea level in the highest reaches of Sassella, I'd be extremely curious to try a wine from this vineyard area that is harvested before the grapes begin to wither on the vines."

Score

90

"The 2018 Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Ultimi Raggi is powerful and intense in its fruit expression, but also mature. Candied fruit, spice, tobacco, leather and dried herbs waft from the glass. Overall the 2018 comes across as a bit advanced, with precarious balance that suggests it is best enjoyed over the next few years."

Score

95

"Aromas of graphite, game, earth, red cherries and dark berries. Dense palate with dusty yet ripe tannins, refreshing acidity and a medium to full body. A lot of good substance that still needs time to integrate and gain complexity. Drinkable now, but best from 2026."

Score

92

"A lively, graceful red, well-spiced and aromatic, with a skein of incense and potpourri notes winding through cherry and berry fruit flavors. Reveals a savory push of loamy earth, mineral and brambly herbs on the plush finish."

Score

95

Score

95

Score

95

Score

93

Score

93+

Score

92

Score

91

Score

90