Arpepe

High in the terraced vineyards of Valtellina’s Inferno subzone, where the steep slopes demand both patience and precision, ARPEPE crafts its Valtellina Superiore Inferno "Fiamme Antiche" from 100% Chiavennasca, the local name for Nebbiolo. At 450 meters of elevation, with a sun-drenched southern exposure, the vines soak up the warmth needed to ripen in this extreme alpine landscape. Fermentation is unhurried, with an extended 54-day maceration in 50-hectoliter wooden vats, allowing the wine to develop its signature depth and structure. Aging takes place over 24 months, split between large barrels and stainless steel tanks, balancing tradition with a lighter touch. The result is a Nebbiolo that speaks eloquently of its origins—pure, precise, and unmistakably Valtellina.

“These wines from ARPEPE (an abbreviation of founder Arturo Pelizzatti Perego’s initials) are among the most impressive I tasted… From top to bottom, the wines are deserving of serious attention. The super-traditional style will leave lovers of translucent Nebbiolo weak at the knees… Perhaps most importantly, ARPEPE shows just how pedigreed the wines of Valtellina can be.”—Antonio Galloni, Vinous