Sforzato blackedition, Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG, 2018

A hypothetical cross of Amarone and Barbaresco – 100% Nebbiolo, made from the grapes that were dried for 3 months, then aged for 32 months in wood. A deep ruby garnet hue. The nose leads with a medium-plus intensity, pretty bouquet of cream, honey cake, red plum, dried rosehip, dried black cherry, ripe sweet watermelon, complicated by hints of dried oregano/sage, hay and leather with some air. The dry palate follows with a medium acidity and a medium-plus structure: extract, fine-textured tannins, body, with a coating creamy mouthfeel, and nice length and fruit featuring red plum, dried rosehip, dried cherries, dried oregano, toffee and plum pudding with a tarry and peaty note and a long camphor/mint-inflected finish. A contemplative wine. 2024-2032–IR