2006 ArPePe Valtellina Ultimi Raggi

(94 points) "The 2006 Valtellina Superiore Sassella Ultimi Raggi is superb. Dark, rich and translucent, the 2006 captures the essence of Nebbiolo here, in Sassella. Sweet dark cherries, menthol, licorice, game and cloves are all woven together in a fabric of pure class. Layered, balsamic and nuanced, the 2006 possesses remarkable power while retaining considerable finesse. All the elements are simply in the right place. Drink this suave, silky Sassella over the next decade-plus. This fruit was harvested very late, on November 15. The 2006 spent 12 days on the skins followed by three years in cask and cement." Vinous (Galloni)