Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Rocce Rosse ArPePe 2016 (750ML)

98 Points, Kerin O'Keefe, www.kerinokeefe.com: "Tight, taut and very young, this gorgeous wine has intense aromas of Alpine berry, orange zest, camphor and cake spice. On the savory, elegantly structured palate, firm tannins accompany crushed mint, wild strawberry, pomegranate and grilled Porcini. A salty note signals the close while vibrant acidity keeps it balanced. Drink through 2046..." 12/24

92 Points, Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator: "A bright red driven by a tang of salinity and lively acidity aligned with taut, integrated tannins and aromas and flavors of crushed cherry and strawberry, tea rose and crushed pine, revealing an umami hint of dried porcini mushroom. Drink now through 2034. 2,100 cases made, 225 cases imported." 04/24

96 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Ar. Pe. Pe. 2016 Valtellina Superiore Riserva Sassella Rocce Rosse is initially understated with timid primary fruit, blood orange and apricot. There is a pretty spiciness as well, with dried cinnamon stick, nutmeg and tanned leather. The wine needs time, and if you come back to the glass after a little pause, it sings with greater intensity and balance. This is a release of 25,302 bottles that sees 97 days on the skins and 34 months of wood and cement aging." 01/24

96 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "Very flowery on the nose, with fresh violets, roses, red currants, bright fruitiness, licorice and stony minerality. The attack is soft, with a medium body, brilliant crisp acidity and tight yet ripe tannins soaked in fruit. Not an easy wine, more elegant than powerful. It needs time to develop more complexity. Drinkable now, but best from 2026." 07/24