La Spia 'MR72' Valtellina Superiore Sasella Riserva 2018 (100ml)

La Spia is a tiny, family-run estate perched on the terraced slopes above Sondrio in Valtellina, where everything is done by hand out of necessity as much as choice. Run by Matteo Falciani, the focus is Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca, grown on steep stone walls that catch every drop of Alpine sunlight.

Production is small, the work is laborious, and the results are bright, finely etched wines that reflect the altitude and the mountain air.

La Spia has become one of the region’s rising names, showing how energetic and expressive Valtellina Nebbiolo can be.

Italy’s winemaking roots run through the ancient Etruscans and Romans, who spread viticulture across the peninsula. Today, it blends deep tradition with forward-thinking producers who champion native grapes and terroir-driven styles. 

The country is a patchwork of regions, grapes and traditions, producing everything from alpine whites in the north to sun-soaked reds in the south. Its appellation system is built around DOC and DOCG, which help signpost quality and origin across a landscape that can shift dramatically from one area to the next. Key grapes such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Barbera sit alongside countless local varieties that shape each region's identity. Whether it is the structure of Chianti Classico and Piedmont, or the bright coastal styles of Sicily, Italian wine is ultimately about diversity and a strong sense of place. 

Lombardy is one of northern Italy’s most varied wine regions offering everything from crisp alpine whites to classic sparkling wines. Its best-known area is Franciacorta where Chardonnay and Pinot Nero (Noir) are made into traditional method fizz with real precision and depth.
Further north the shores of Lake Garda and the Alpine foothills produce fresh easy drinking whites and soft approachable reds. Nebbiolo appears in a lighter style (compared to Piedmont) in Valtellina while grapes like Pinot Grigio and Trebbiano thrive across the region.
Lombardy’s winemaking is diverse but consistent with a clear focus on clean fruit driven styles shaped by cooler northern climates.