Pizzo Coca - Alpi Retiche, IGT, Valtellina, Italy (2021)

TASTING NOTES

A fresh, vibrant and vital expression of Nebbiolo (typically named Chiavanesca in Lombardy). Black pepper, crushed rocks, violets, pot pouri and under ripe strawberries and red cherries. This is a bright, alpine blast with a long, long finish. 

Hand harvest, de-stemmed, and a natural fermentation in stainless steel, only one pumpover during fermentation and following, even less frequently to minimize extraction. Maceration is short (10 days) to maximize freshness. A brief maturation in stainless steel and bottled early, without fining or filtration and very low levels of SO2.

The young, dynamic Lorenzo Mazzucconi started Pizzo Coca in 2015. He owns the smallest winery in the appellation - 1.7 hectares of organically farmed vineyards at 400-550m, and which include sites in Grumello and Inferno. Viticulture in this small region is deemed 'heroic' with dangerously steep, narrow terraces that are totally non-mechanical.

Lorenzo has a partner, Alessandro Aldisquarcina, and both are also busy establishing a self-sustaining farm. They farm produce, raises chicken, donkey and sheep and tend to 100 bee hives. Lorenzo aims to be self-sufficient. Named after the highest peak of the Orobie Alps, the winery is based in a former dairy co-op in the middle of the town of Ponte di Valtellina. Lorenzo produces wine in a natural way that respects tradition.