Grumello and Inferno represent two neighbouring and complementary wine-growing areas of the Media Valtellina, on the south-facing Rhaetian slope. Grumello centres on the historic castle of the same name, with terraced vineyards situated at altitudes of approximately 350 to 600 metres, whilst Inferno extends eastwards into an area with a more consistent altitude range, between 300 and 500 metres, but divided into distinct micro-environments.
Viticulture takes place on steep slopes, supported by dry stone walls, where rock outcrops among poor, shallow soils. Rock, light, alpine ventilation and breezes from the valley floor and nearby Lake Como promote balanced ripening and contribute to the wines’ distinctive character. In the Inferno area, southern exposures and higher average heat sums accentuate the sunny character of the territory; in the Grumello, the variation in altitude enhances the complexity of the different vineyards.
Nebbiolo, locally known as Chiavennasca, is the main grape variety and must account for at least 90 per cent of the blend in Valtellina Superiore. The grapes produce fine, fresh and structured red wines, capable of expressing elegance, tannic structure and depth. Cultivation on terraces, the manual tending of the vineyards and meticulous ageing complete a winemaking tradition intimately linked to the landscape.