Here is a wine of soaring intensity and elegance. The 2007 Sforzato di Valtellina Canua is a leader in Valtellina wine thanks to its exceptional and steady performance over the years. What sets this wine apart is the caliber of its varietal voice and the unique method employed to the make the wine. Sforzato is made from dried raisins instead of fresh grapes and the alcohol (measured here at 15.5%) and flavor intensity are greater as a result. This wine offers a clean and well integrated package with both power and grace. it should continue to evolve over the next ten years.

The 2004 Sforzato di Valtellina Canua is an intense, rich wine made from 100% dried Nebbiolo that has been given an extended period of drying on wood racks to remove water and concentrate the flavors, as is done in Veneto with Amarone. Inviting, sweet aromas lead to dark red fruits, spices, flowers and toasted oak as the 2004 Canua opens up. This is a rather primary Canua, yet there is notable harmony and finesse here which leads me to believe that a few years in bottle is all the wine needs for its considerable potential to blossom to the fullest. The Canua spent 18 months in French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022. Sertoli Salis is a reference point producer for the wines of Valtellina. Importer: Premium Brands, Forest Hills, NY; tel. (718) 263-4094

The 2003 Sforzato di Valtellina Canua is a distinctive wine. Its huge, super-ripe nose is reminiscent of Amarone. With some air, the breeding of this rich, sumptuous wine comes through in its expression of sweet fruit, new leather, chocolate and spices. It offers superb depth and terrific overall balance. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2018. The Salis family is one of Valtellina’s historic, aristocratic familes. The estate releases a broad range of wines. The top bottling is the Sforzato Canua, which is made from Chiavennasca that is left to dry for several months prior to fermentation. Importer: Premium Brands, Forest Hills, NY; tel. (718) 263-4094

Red fruit syrup and a hint of milk chocolate on the nose. Full-bodied and intense, with almost sticky, fruit-coated tannins and a long fresh finish. Amarone meets Barolo, and it's delicious. Best after 2005. 5,200 cases made, 1,200 cases imported.??–null??Region: Italy / Sforzato di Valtellina Select to Add