Le Tense Sassella (2000)

About this wine

Le Tense Sassella Nino Negri 2000 is a bright ruby red wine with a complex nose featuring alluring raspberry notes, hints of rose and violet, sweet spices, and subtle aromas of orange peel and candied fruit. On the palate, it is full-bodied with ripe tannins, delivering a full-flavored experience with lingering notes of red berries and sweet spices in a long finish. This wine is produced from Nebbiolo grapes grown exclusively in the Sassella subzone, an area known for its ancient stones and rocks that contribute to the unique terroir. The name 'Le Tense' originates from the Swiss domination period (1512–1797), when the best vineyards were 'tense,' meaning 'protected,' by armed guardians, highlighting the historical significance of these celebrated vineyards. The combination of the unique terroir and the Nebbiolo grape results in a wine that expresses the character of the land with elegant aromas and delicate, harmonious flavors typical of mountain wines.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca, is the primary grape in the 2000 Nino Negri Le Tense Sassella wine. This grape thrives in Valtellina's unique alpine environment, where steep, terraced vineyards benefit from abundant sunshine and cool mountain breezes. The challenging terrain necessitates manual cultivation, a practice often referred to as 'heroic viticulture.' In the Sassella subzone, Nebbiolo develops thin, delicate skins that contribute to the wine's elegant aromas and soft tannins.

Quick facts

• 🛡️ The name "Le Tense" originates from the Swiss rule over Valtellina (1512–1797), during which the finest vineyards were "tense," meaning "protected" by armed guards, highlighting their esteemed status.
• 🏞️ Sassella, the subzone where "Le Tense" is produced, is renowned as one of the oldest vine cultivation areas in Valtellina, characterized by ancient stones and rocks that define its unique terroir.
• 🍇 The Nebbiolo grape, locally known as Chiavennasca in Valtellina, is celebrated for producing wines with elegant aromas and delicate, harmonious flavors typical of mountain wines.
• 🌞 The vineyards for "Le Tense" are situated on south-facing terraces at altitudes between 300 and 450 meters above sea level, benefiting from optimal sun exposure and the temperate 'Breva' wind from Lake Como.
• 🍷 The wine exhibits a bright ruby hue, with a complex nose featuring alluring raspberry notes, hints of roses and violets, sweet spices, and notes of orange peel and candied fruit, leading to a full-bodied palate with ripe tannins.

Palate profile

Producer

Established in 1897, Nino Negri is a historic winery located in Chiuro, Italy, within the Valtellina region of Lombardy. The winery is housed in the 15th-century Castello Quadrio, featuring extensive underground cellars that store thousands of barrels. Nino Negri specializes in producing Nebbiolo wines, locally known as Chiavennasca, cultivated on steep, terraced vineyards supported by ancient dry stone walls. The estate is renowned for its Sfursat (Sforzato) wines, made from air-dried grapes, combining the opulence of Amarone with the elegant complexity of Barolo.